What to check for AFTER a fire!

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

MOST IMPORTANT

• Stay out of buildings surrounded by water and/or dangling electricity lines. Report it to the power company.
• Contact your insurance company and do not throw out any damaged items until an extensive inventory is taken.

Structural Damage

• Check for important damage on the outside of your home first. Look for foundation cracks, damaged gas and power lines, and support beams, etc.
• Damage on the outside can mean you have serious damage on the inside of your home.
• If your doors are jammed shut it could mean that it is providing support for the rest of your home, and you should find a different way to enter the building.
• If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, you should immediately leave the property and call the fire department and utility provider as soon as you are a safe distance away.
• Propane tank systems should be completely turned off and need to be checked by a professional before use.
• Take photographs of the damage and keep all receipts - you may need these for insurance claims.

Utilities and Major Systems

• If you see sparks from broken or frayed wires or smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the fuse box.
• If there is water around your fuse box or a flipped breaker it is best to call a licensed electrician.
• Flipped breakers may indicate damage inside the home.
• If you suspect water and sewage lines are damaged, turn off your water at the main.
• If you have a heating oil tank it should be turned off and inspected by a professional.

Checking Your Home After A Fire | American Red Cross