What to do after fire?

7/22/2022 (Permalink)

In 2018 Malibu was hit by the worst fires in a decade.

MOST IMPORTANT  Stay out of buildings surrounded by water and/or dangling electricity lines. Report it to the power company. Contact your insurance company and do not throw out any damaged items until an extensive inventory is taken.

Structural Damage Check for important damage on the outside of your home first. Look for foundation cracks, damaged gas and power lines, and support beams, etc. Damage on the outside can mean you have serious damage on the inside of your home .If your doors are jammed shut it could mean that it is providing support for the rest of your home, and you should find a different way to enter the building. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, you should immediately leave the property and call the fire department and utility provider as soon as you are a safe distance away. Propane tank systems should be completely turned off and need to be checked by a professional before use. Take photographs of the damage and keep all receipts - you may need these for insurance claims.

Utilities and Major Systems If you see sparks from broken or frayed wires or smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the fuse box. If there is water around your fuse box or a flipped breaker it is best to call a licensed electrician. Flipped breakers may indicate damage inside the home. If you suspect water and sewage lines are damaged, turn off your water at the main. If you have a heating oil tank it should be turned off and inspected by a professional.