Personal injuries in connection with fires are treated by health personnel on site or in hospital. Some damage, such as shock, can occur in the aftermath of the fire. If you are concerned about your own or others' health after a fire, contact your GP or emergency room.
Unsafe property
It can be unsafe to stay in a house or on property that has burned. If the police or fire brigade have informed you about this, be sure to pass this on to others who should know. The police can also order the homeowner to take measures that prevent third parties from getting hurt. After a fire, the police will always try to find the cause. Sometimes it is necessary to cordon off the property. Never enter an area that has been cordoned off.
Contact the insurance
After a fire, you should contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Feel free to take pictures of the damage if it is justifiable. Write a list of damaged belongings and keep receipts if they are not destroyed in the fire. Be aware that the house or building, and the contents are often on two different agreements – sometimes also in different companies. In this case, remember to notify both. Your insurance company will guide you further in the process.
Secure the scene of the fire
Unless the police have cordoned off the scene of the fire, it is your responsibility to look after your house and belongings. This is especially important if you are going to apply to the insurance company for compensation for damages. If you cannot continue to live in the residence, close and lock windows and doors if possible. Doors and windows that cannot be closed in the usual way can be covered with boards or planks that are nailed in place. If it is safe, take valuables and other belongings that are not damaged.
Check the equipment before use
Electricity and water may be turned off as a result of the fire. Before using the electrical system again, it should be checked by an electrician. A plumber should go over the piping system to make sure it is not damaged by the fire, before turning the water back on.
Cleaning and damage
The fire department can help pump out water that has accumulated in the house during the fire extinguishing. Drying and cleaning are your responsibility. There are also companies that provide services and devices that make this job easier, especially in the event of major water damage.
Flames, smoke and water can do a lot of damage, but a lot can be saved with the right equipment. For example, there are separate companies that can repair documents and valuables after fire or water damage. Other companies offer cleaning with special devices that can, for example, remove smoke and soot.
As a general rule, you should get rid of any food and medicines that may have been contaminated in the fire. Electrical appliances must usually also be discarded if they have been exposed to fire or water.
Where to stay?
If your home is so damaged by fire that you cannot live there, check if you can stay overnight with friends or relatives. If this is not possible and you are in an emergency situation with nowhere to live, NAV has a duty to help you find temporary shelter within the municipality. On NAV.no you can read more about temporary housing in emergency situations.