After a Fire

English | Español

A fire in your home or business can cause serious damage. The building and many of your belongings may have been badly damaged by flames, heat, smoke, and water.

You will find things not damaged by the fire may still be ruined by smoke and may be soggy with water used to put out the fire. Anything you want to save or reuse will need to be carefully cleaned.

To fight the fire, firefighters may have broken windows and cut holes in the roof. This slows the fire's growth and gets rid of dark smoke that makes it hard for firefighters to see. They may have cut holes in your walls to make sure that the fire is completely out and not hidden in the walls.

It is important to understand the risk to your safety and health even after the fire is out. The soot and dirty water left behind may contain things that could make you sick.

Be very careful if you go into your home and if you touch any fire-damaged items.

Resources