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What's the First Thing to Do After a House Fire?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Get Out and Stay Out

The moment you notice a fire, your only job is to get every person and pet out of the house. Leave belongings behind. Close doors behind you if you can, but do not let that slow you down. Once outside, move to a safe meeting spot away from the structure and call 911.

Do not go back in for anything, not even for a phone or a wallet. Fire can spread faster than you expect, and smoke can disorient you within seconds. Wait for firefighters to tell you the building is safe. They are the ones who decide when re-entry is possible.

Keep your family meeting point and emergency numbers written down somewhere you can grab quickly. A simple plan helps everyone react calmly when every second counts.

Call Your Insurance Company

Once everyone is safe and the fire department has the situation under control, call your insurance company. Tell them the property address and the date of the fire. Ask what documentation they need from you, such as photos, a list of damaged items, or a police report. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Secure the Property

After the fire department clears the home, the next priority is preventing further damage. A burned roof or broken window can let in rain, snow, or pests. Board up openings with plywood and cover roof holes with a tarp if you can do so safely.

Firefighting water often leaves the house soaked, which can lead to mold and structural issues. If water is still standing, remove it carefully. Turn off the main water valve if you suspect a burst pipe. Do not touch electrical panels or wires if they are wet or damaged.

If you notice significant water damage from firefighting efforts, you may need professional help to dry out the structure. The pros can assess what is salvageable and what needs to be removed.

  • Turn off gas and electricity only if you can do so without entering damaged areas.
  • Keep a flashlight handy for inspecting dark spaces.
  • Wear gloves and boots when moving debris.
  • Do not use water to put out grease or electrical fires.
  • Save a piece of clothing or a receipt from the fire for your insurance records.
  • Keep pets away from the affected area until it is cleaned.

Address Water Damage

Firefighting water can soak carpets, drywall, and flooring. Even if the fire was small, the water used to put it out can cause secondary damage. Mold can start growing within a day or two, especially in warm, damp conditions. Acting quickly helps reduce the extent of the damage.

If the water is clean and you can safely remove it, use a wet vacuum or mop. For larger areas, you might need professional drying equipment. The pros can remove water-damaged flooring and drywall that cannot be saved. They use moisture meters and air movers to dry hidden areas.

Do not assume that everything is ruined. Some materials can be dried and cleaned, while others, like insulation, usually need to be replaced. A professional inspection can tell you what is worth saving.

  • Remove wet rugs and furniture to a dry area if possible.
  • Open windows and doors to let air circulate, but only if the fire is fully out.
  • Run fans or dehumidifiers to help dry surfaces.
  • Do not use electrical appliances that got wet.
  • Take photos of the water damage for your insurance claim.
  • Check for sagging ceilings, which may indicate trapped water.

Know When to Get Professional Help

Some fire and water damage is beyond what a homeowner can handle. If the fire affected the structure of your home, such as roof joists or load-bearing walls, you need a professional evaluation. A qualified contractor or engineer can determine if the building is safe to occupy.

For water damage, the pros have specialized equipment and training to dry out your home thoroughly. They can also help with mold prevention and removal of damaged materials. You do not have to do everything alone, and trying to cut corners can lead to bigger problems later.

Your insurance company may have a list of approved vendors, but you are not required to use them. Ask about timelines and what the work involves before you agree to anything.

Water damage does not wait

Call (703) 462-1739 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

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Frequently asked questions

Should I turn off the electricity after a fire?

Only if you can do so safely without entering damaged areas. If the main breaker is outside or in an accessible spot, you can shut it off. If it is inside a burned or wet area, leave it for the fire department or an electrician to handle.

Can I stay in the house after a small fire?

Not until the fire department says it is safe. Even a small fire can leave hidden damage or toxic smoke residue. If you have any doubt, stay elsewhere until a professional inspects the home. See a doctor if you feel unwell from smoke exposure.

What should I do with damaged items?

Do not throw anything away until you document it for your insurance claim. Take photos and make a list of damaged items. Your insurer may want to see them before you dispose of them. Once they give you permission, you can discard unsalvageable items.

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