According to a Red Cross survey, home fires make up the majority of the 64,000 disasters they respond to each year. Yet, many Americans remain underprepared for home fires including lack of knowledge on prevention and recovery from fire damage quickly and safely. If you’re on this page, chances are you must be looking to understand the process for fire damage restoration Ohio residents use. If so, read this emergency fire damage cleanup Ohio guide.
What is the Recovery Process from Fire Damage in Ohio?
Follow these steps after a fire damage in a commercial or residential area:
- Prioritize Your Safety
- Access the Damage and Salvage What You Can
- Contact Your Insurance Company
- Secure Your Property
- Contact Ohio Fire Damage Repair Services
- Begin the Cleanup Process
- Repair and Rebuild
- Take Preventive Measures for the Future
Here’s a brief breakdown of these steps for fire damage restoration Ohio.
1. Prioritize Your Safety
As mentioned by the U.S. Fire Administration, many homeowners in the U.S. don’t know where to begin and who to contact after a home fire. But don’t worry, this step-by-step fire damage restoration guide will help you navigate your recovery process easily.
First and foremost, you need to ensure your safety by walking out of the building and not going back inside until it is declared safe. That’s because fire can damage the structural integrity of your property, leaving behind unstable walls, floors, and ceilings that could collapse any minute.
And there are other hazards as well, such as burnt or exposed wires, hidden embers, and smoke inhalation risks. Therefore, you must always wait for clearance from the fire department before entering your property after the fire.
2. Assess the Damage and Salvage What You Can
Once you get clearance to re-enter your home, your first step is to assess the damage carefully, take detailed pictures from every angle, and record videos. These videos and pictures are your valuable assets, as you can claim your insurance coverage with the help of these.
Next, you must retrieve whatever you can from the damaged property, especially your valuable documents and sentimental items like heirlooms, family photos, jewelry, and major electronic equipment.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
One of the first calls you should make after fire damage is to your home insurance company. They’ll inform you about the next steps you must take to cover the damage as early as possible. According to the Insurance Information Institute, every year, about one in 425 insured homes files for a property damage claim related to fire and lightning.
Your insurance provider will help with:
- Understanding your coverage
- Assess damages for the claim
- Filing for the fire damage claim
- Arrange temporary housing when needed
Just let your insurance provider assess the damaged property, show them the detailed photos and videos, and submit all receipts for expenses when dealing with a damaged property, including emergency fire damage cleanup Ohio services costs.
Americon Restoration also offers claims assistance to ensure the process goes smoothly and your chances of getting the money increase.
4. Secure Your Property
Your next step should be to secure your property, especially if you’re planning to temporarily move out of your house, because houses without security are 300% more likely to be burglarized.
You can inform your residential fire restoration Ohio company to board up windows and doors and safeguard your property from additional harm.
Americon Restoration boards up properties that need restoration to avoid being vandalized or invaded by squatters.
Moreover, turn off the gas, electricity, and water supply, if not already turned off by the fire department.
And make sure all the damaged roofs are covered with tarps. For added security, inform your local law enforcement authorities before you leave your fire-damaged property.
5. Contact Ohio Fire Damage Repair Services
According to the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA), specialized training is required along with protective equipment and proper procedures for fire damage restoration. Or otherwise, the hazardous substances (metals, plastic, lead, asbestos) that ash and soot contain can pose serious health risks when disturbed during cleanup.
So it’s better to never try cleaning a fire-damaged property yourself, unless you have at least basic training on how it is done. You must contact your local 24/7 fire damage restoration Ohio services like Americon Restoration.
They’ll deal with the water extraction and drying process, remove smoke and soot safely, repair structural damage, and even perform air quality tests to make sure the environment is safe to breathe. Indeed, hiring a residential fire restoration Ohio company can alleviate almost half of your emotional stress and logistical burdens during recovery.
6. Begin the Cleanup Process
The major things that you need to clear during the cleaning process include water that was used to extinguish the fire, soot particles, dust and debris, smoke odor, damaged furniture, clothes, and electronics. And if you’ve decided to do the initial cleaning yourself, it’s best to be cautious and wear protective gear (gloves, mask, goggles, boots).
Then, start with addressing the water and mold damage, as mold and mildew growth will start within 24-48 hours of the moisture exposure. Make sure you ventilate your home and allow the fresh air to come in. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and disinfect surfaces using antimicrobial solutions, because mold growth can be persistent without proper remediation.
Tip: Do not try to water-clean your soot-covered walls, as it can leave stains. Instead, commercial fire restoration Ohio companies suggest using dry sponges on walls to clear the soot.
Then, you can use home remedies like baking soda to absorb smells. Or consider hiring a 24/7 fire damage restoration Ohio company for ozone treatment or thermal fogging in order to thoroughly remove lingering smoke odors.
Also, make sure to wash everything, including bedding, clothes, and upholstery, in your fire-damaged property. And deep clean floors too.
7. Repair and Rebuild
You’re almost there. Once you’re done cleaning your property, the next step is to repair and rebuild the damaged surfaces. For instance, your walls, flooring, drywall, furniture, etc. It’s best if you hire a commercial fire restoration Ohio company to deal with the repair and rebuild professionally.
Americon can restore your damaged property to normal, ensure quality work, and comply with all Ohio safety codes. Plus, this will save you time and a good amount of money.
8. Take Preventive Measures for the Future
Lastly, make sure you know what to do if such a situation occurs again in the future. Learn about all the emergency exits in your home and create an exit plan for the future. Best if you could practice a fire escape drill with your family. And don’t forget to install smoke alarms in your home.
Most importantly, do your research beforehand and learn about your local emergency fire damage cleanup services, so you know exactly whom to call when a disaster strikes.
Some other precautionary measures that you must practice are to keep fire extinguishers in your home (at least in key areas like the kitchen and garage) and avoid overloading your electrical outlets.
Bounce Back Stronger With Americon’s Fire Damage Restoration Services
We know how sour-crushing it can be to see your property and all the belongings you hold dear being engulfed in flames. But this is also the time you need to be stronger and recover from this tragedy a winner. Its about the mindset, and we know Ohians have what it takes to survive and thrive. So don’t let a fire take your will and strength away. Call Americon Restoration at 1-833-437-3487, and we’ll help you get back on track quickly!
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does it take to recover after a fire?
Recovering after a fire can take weeks to over a year, depending on the severity of damage and availability of resources. Immediately after a fire, secure the property, contact your insurance, and document all damage. Fire damage can last indefinitely if untreated. Insurance usually covers repairs. Rebuild by assessing the structure, removing debris, and hiring licensed contractors.
What to do immediately after a fire?
Immediately after a fire, contact emergency services, ensure everyone is safe, and do not re-enter the building until cleared. Fire damage can last months or longer if not addressed quickly. Insurance typically pays for structural repairs and personal property loss. Rebuilding involves damage assessment, cleanup, permits, and licensed reconstruction.
How long does fire damage last?
Fire damage can last indefinitely if not repaired. Smoke residues, soot, and structural weakening may persist for months or years. Restoration should begin within 48 hours to prevent permanent damage and mold growth. The timeline depends on damage severity, but most homes require weeks to several months for full restoration.
Will insurance pay for fire damage?
Insurance usually pays for fire damage if the policy includes fire coverage. It typically covers structural repairs, damaged belongings, and temporary housing. Rebuilding after a fire involves assessing damage, removing debris, securing permits, and hiring licensed contractors for structural and interior reconstruction.
How do you rebuild after a fire?
Rebuild after a fire by assessing structural damage, removing debris, and securing permits. Hire licensed contractors for repairs and restoration. Document all damage for insurance claims and follow local building codes during reconstruction. Begin the process quickly to prevent further deterioration and ensure safety.
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