After the Fire 3
What do I do now?
| Contact your insurance agent
Contact your insurance company right away and ask them what
to do rst. There are companies that specialize in cleaning and
restoring your personal items. Ask your insurance company
for recommendations of companies you can trust. Make sure
you know if you or your insurance company will pay for the
cleaning. When you contact the company, be sure to ask for a
cost estimate in writing.
If you do not have insurance, your family and community
might help you get back on your feet. Organizations that might
help include:
ĵ American Red Cross (ARC).
ĵ Salvation Army.
ĵ Religious organizations.
ĵ Public agencies, such as the public health department.
ĵ Community groups.
ĵ State or municipal emergency services oce.
ĵ Nonprot crisis-counseling centers.
| Take care of yourself and family
Contact your local disaster relief service, such as the ARC or the
Salvation Army. They will help you nd food, clothing, medicine
and a place to stay. You have a big job ahead of you. Get plenty
of rest, and ask for help. Do not try to do it all alone.
| Help your pets
If you have pets, nd and comfort them. Scared animals often
react by biting or scratching. Handle them carefully. Try to leave
pets with a family member, friend or veterinarian if you are
visiting or cleaning your damaged home. Keeping your pets out
of the house until the cleanup is complete will keep them safe.
| Security and safety
Do not enter your damaged home or apartment unless the re
department says it is safe.