What to Do After a Fire Accident

Fire accidents are devastating for all involved, whether it is the loss of personal belongings, the destruction of property or the physical and emotional trauma caused by burn injuries. It can also be financially devastating for those who are unable to work and may not have a place to live while the bills continue to pile up. Many of these tragedies could have been prevented had proper safety measures been taken. It is important to learn about the common causes of fire accidents so that you can protect yourself and others from becoming victims.

The most important step after a fire accident is to ensure the safety of all family members and friends who have been displaced from their homes. This means evacuating everyone from the building and securing the property. Boarding up windows and covering roof openings can help prevent weather elements from entering as well as unauthorized access. It can also protect against further damage and the potential for theft or vandalism while the home is being restored.

Once it is safe, begin to sort through the remains of your home and gather any items that have not been damaged by smoke, soot, or water used to put out the fire. Keep a record of what you have saved, especially any receipts. You should also keep a record of any conversations you have with insurance companies and restoration services to provide documentation for your losses.

If you have suffered burns in a fire accident, you should seek medical attention immediately. Even minor burns can cause severe pain and scarring. Cooling the burns with running water can help relieve some of the pain and swelling. You should also get medical treatment for any other physical or emotional symptoms related to the fire accident.

It is also a good idea to contact your local fire department to obtain the fire report, if possible. This document provides official documentation of the fire and may contain crucial details that will help support your insurance claim.

In addition to treating for burn injuries and addressing lost or destroyed property, you should start the process of finding new accommodations as soon as possible. You should ask your insurance agent about the availability of vouchers that can be used to cover hotel or motel expenses. You should also inquire about short-term rental options that can be provided by government agencies or private charities. These services can help ease the financial burden that a house or apartment fire can create. Getting these resources in place can make it much easier to concentrate on recovering from your losses and moving forward. If the fire accident was due to negligence or a product defect, you may be able to file a lawsuit to recover damages. TorkLaw’s attorneys are ready to help you navigate the complexities of a fire damage and personal injury case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We are available to assist clients in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Oakland and throughout the state of California.