The Steps to Take After a Fire Has Occurred

Domestic Fire Safety · 30th April 2018

Given the disastrous nature of fires, most articles tend to focus on methods of prevention. While these preventative methods are extremely important to communicate, unfortunately, fires can still occur regardless, leaving chaos in their wake. Having to deal with the aftermath of a fire can be overwhelming for families, leaving parents with an endless list of people to contact, all while trying to hold onto some semblance of normality.

To help with this traumatic period, Cheshire Fire will be detailing the necessary steps to take after a fire has occurred.

Health

Firstly, once the fire has been extinguished, you should make sure that all members of your family are seen by a medical professional. Breathing in hot smoke can cause physical harm which may only become noticeable some time after the fire. If you begin to feel unwell, you may need to go to the hospital.

For those who suffer from asthma or other breathing problems, you may need a longer period of respite from the property where the fire took place, in order to allow time for the air quality to return to normal.

Accommodation

If your home has been struck particularly badly by the fire, it could well mean that your home is no longer habitable. If this is the case, you will need to check your with your insurance provider to see if you are eligible for alternative accommodation. Failing that, your local district council’s housing office may be able to offer emergency accommodation.

However, it may be the case that you simply want to stay with family and friends instead which, given the circumstances, may be the best option.

Insurance

If you have insurance cover, it’s important to get in contact with your provider as quickly as possible. Here are some things to keep in mind when contacting your insurance provider:

  • Check your policy details in relation to the loss suffered and ask for a claim form
  • Keep any receipts for any work done following a loss, as they could be needed to form a claim
  • The insurance company may want to inspect the property before clearing up begins
  • Listing damaged goods and taking photos of your property will help enforce claims
  • For any building or decorating work that is undertaken following the fire, make sure that you get written quotes and submit these with your claim form, including any receipts, to your insurance company

Cheshire Fire provides businesses of all kinds with high quality fire risk assessments, fire safety training and fire fighting equipment. With our guidance, you can rest assured your premises will meet all fire safety legislation. Our experts will help make your business as hazard-free as possible and ensure you are equipped and qualified to react appropriately in the event of a fire. To improve your workplace fire safety in Chester, Warrington or the surrounding areas, get in touch with our team today to discuss how we can help.