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What Should I Do in the First 24 Hours After a House Fire?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Safety First

The first 24 hours after a fire are about protecting people, not property. Do not re-enter your home until the fire department or building official tells you it is safe. Smoke, soot, and structural damage can create hidden dangers. Keep children and pets away from the affected area entirely.

If you feel unwell from smoke exposure, see a doctor. Wash exposed skin and change clothes to remove soot particles. Drink water and rest, because the stress of a fire takes a physical toll. Your health matters more than any item in the house.

Contact Your Insurance

Call your insurance company as soon as you can. Tell them the fire happened and ask what steps they need from you. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. They will guide you on documentation and next steps, so keep a notebook of every call and conversation.

Take photos and videos of the damage before any cleanup begins. Do not throw anything away until you have documented it. Your insurer may want to see the scene as it is. Save receipts for any emergency purchases like lodging or clothing, and ask your insurer how to submit them.

  • Take photos of every room, including the exterior.
  • List damaged items with approximate purchase dates.
  • Keep a log of all phone calls with your insurer.
  • Save receipts for temporary housing and essentials.
  • Ask about temporary living expenses coverage.

Secure the Property

Once officials allow re-entry, secure your home against weather and intruders. Board up broken windows, cover holes in the roof, and close any open doors. If the fire department left a notice, read it carefully. This step prevents further damage from rain or wind, which can worsen the situation in any climate.

Do not attempt major cleanup yourself. Soot and ash can be toxic, and structural damage may be hidden. Your focus should be on temporary measures only, like tarping a roof or locking a door. Leave the heavy work to professionals who have the right gear.

Document Everything

Create a detailed inventory of what was lost or damaged. Walk through each room and note furniture, electronics, clothing, and personal items. Include the condition before the fire if you can. This list helps your insurance claim and gives you a clear picture of what you need to replace.

Do not touch any surfaces until a professional inspects them. Soot can smear and make damage worse. Let local water damage pros assess what can be saved and what must be removed. They know how to identify salvageable items and what is beyond repair.

  • Write down the make and model of appliances.
  • Note the age of carpets and flooring.
  • Photograph serial numbers on electronics.
  • List any antiques or valuables separately.
  • Keep a copy of your inventory in a safe place.

Seek Professional Help

Fire damage often brings water damage from firefighting efforts. The combination of soot, ash, and moisture creates a complex cleanup job. Local water damage pros have the equipment to dry out walls, remove damaged drywall, and clean affected areas. They can also assess if mold is a risk, especially in a humid climate.

You do not have to manage this alone. A professional can handle the cleanup, from removing water-damaged flooring to repairing drywall. They will work with your timeline and explain what each step involves. Focus on your family's recovery and let experts handle the restoration.

Water damage does not wait

Phones are answered 24/7 for Virginia Beach and nearby communities.

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Frequently asked questions

When can I go back inside my house?

Only enter when the fire department or a building official says it is safe. This can take hours or days, depending on the damage. Do not rush, because hidden structural issues or toxic fumes can be present. Your safety is more important than retrieving belongings.

What should I do with my pets?

Keep pets away from the fire-damaged area entirely. Soot and ash can harm their lungs, and they may ingest toxic particles. If your home is unsafe, board them with a friend or a kennel. Consult a veterinarian if they show any signs of distress.

Can I clean soot myself?

Avoid cleaning soot yourself. Dry soot can smear and embed into surfaces, making damage worse. Wet soot can cause acid damage. Professionals have the right tools and training to clean safely. Focus on personal hygiene and leave the house cleanup to experts.

Call Now (757) 665-2121