How to Handle a Fire Accident

A fire accident is a devastating event for any individual or family. In addition to loss of property, many victims suffer from physical and emotional scarring. The impact of a fire accident can be even more severe when children are involved. Young kids often have an innate curiosity about things like matches and lighters, which puts them at greater risk of fire accidents. While parents try to teach their kids safe practices, a careless mistake or inattentiveness can lead to tragic consequences.

Smoke inhalation and burn injuries are common causes of fire accident injuries. Smoke inhalation injuries can cause acute lung injury and carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be life-threatening. Burn injuries can also be extremely painful and disfiguring. A fire accident can also cause structural damage to a building and its contents. Many metal fixtures corrode due to heat and the chemicals in smoke. Similarly, wood structures can warp and buckle due to extreme heat and moisture.

If your home has been damaged by a fire, contact your insurance agent as soon as possible. They can help you arrange for temporary accommodations if necessary. They can also ensure that windows, doors and ventilation openings are properly secured. It is important to stay away from the site of the fire until you receive clearance from the fire and rescue services to re-enter the property.

If you’re a tenant, discuss accommodation options with your landlord. You may be able to apply for disaster relief to cover temporary living expenses. If you own your home, your mortgage company or the Internal Revenue Service may be able to provide you with tax deductions to offset some of your losses.

Workplace fires are less common than home fires, but they can still be devastating for businesses and their employees. Most workplace fires are caused by human error, including improper storage or handling of flammable materials and overheated equipment. Other causes of fires include cooking in restaurants or bakeries, smoking on the job and electrical issues.

When a fire occurs in your home or business, document all of the damage with photos and videos, police and fire department reports, safety inspection and medical documents. Organize all physical and digital documentation in an easily accessible location, and back up files to avoid permanent loss.

When a fire accident occurs, hire a law firm that is experienced in handling catastrophic loss cases. The firm should employ experts to review and analyze all data to determine the cause of the fire accident. If the investigation shows that someone else’s negligence caused the accident, they should be held responsible for your damages. This could include current and future medical bills, property damage, financial loss from lost income, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. If a loved one died in a fire accident, survivors can file a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible party.