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What Should I Do Immediately After a House Fire?

Last updated October 31, 2026

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The short answer

Ensure Everyone Is Safe

Your top priority after a house fire is getting everyone out and staying out. If anyone is injured or struggling to breathe, call 911 immediately and seek medical help. Do not go back inside for belongings or pets until firefighters have declared the structure safe.

Once you are outside, move to a safe distance and wait for emergency responders. If you live in Fresno, keep your family meeting spot and emergency numbers written down so everyone knows where to go. Check on neighbors if it is safe to do so, but never put yourself at risk.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance company as soon as you can after the fire. They will guide you on what to document and what steps to take next. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered, so ask questions about your specific coverage.

Take photos of the damage from outside if it is safe, and keep a list of damaged items. Your insurance company may send an adjuster to assess the loss. Do not throw anything away until you have documented it and received guidance.

  • Take photos of the exterior and any visible damage
  • List items you remember losing in the fire
  • Keep receipts for any emergency purchases
  • Ask about temporary housing coverage
  • Save all communication with your insurer

Secure the Property

After the fire department leaves, the home may be structurally unsafe. Board up broken windows and doors to prevent unauthorized entry and weather damage. Use plywood and nails if you can do so safely, or ask a professional for help.

Turn off utilities like gas, electricity, and water if the fire department has not already done so. Do not attempt to turn them back on yourself. A qualified electrician or plumber can inspect and restore service safely.

Limit Smoke and Soot Damage

Smoke and soot can spread quickly and cause further damage even after the fire is out. Open windows to ventilate the home if it is safe, but do not touch walls or surfaces, as soot can smear and become harder to remove.

Change your HVAC air filters and consider having the ducts cleaned by a professional. Do not run the system if it may circulate soot. For surfaces, dry cleaning soot with a specialized sponge is often better than wiping with water.

  • Wear gloves and a mask when entering
  • Open windows to air out the space
  • Do not use any electrical appliances until checked
  • Avoid touching soot-covered surfaces
  • Change air filters and clean ducts

Hire Water Damage Pros

Firefighting efforts often leave behind significant water damage. The pros can handle both fire and water cleanup, including drying out soaked materials and preventing mold growth. They use industrial equipment to extract water and dehumidify the space.

You may need help with drywall repair, flooring removal, and ceiling repairs if water damaged these areas. Local water damage pros can assess the extent of the damage and outline the steps involved. Act quickly to minimize secondary damage.

Need help right now?

Phones are answered 24/7 for Fresno and nearby communities.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I stay in my house after a fire?

No, you should not stay in the house until a fire official has inspected it and declared it safe. Smoke and structural damage can pose serious health and safety risks, so wait for professional clearance before re-entering.

How long does fire damage cleanup take?

Cleanup time depends on the size of the fire and the extent of damage. It can take days to weeks for a full restoration. The pros will give you a timeline after assessing the property, but it varies by situation.

What should I do with soot-covered belongings?

Do not clean soot yourself with water, as it can set the stain. Leave items in place and document them for your insurance claim. Some items may be salvageable, but professional cleaning is often needed to prevent permanent damage.

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