🔥 After the Fire: A Guide to Recovery

Experiencing a fire can be traumatic and disorienting. This guide is here to help you take the first steps toward recovery, safety, and rebuilding.

🛡️ Step 1: Insurance and Financial Support

Are you insured?

• Yes: Contact your insurance provider immediately. They will guide you through:

  • Securing your property to prevent further damage
  • Documenting losses with photos and written inventory
  • Arranging professional restoration services
  • Understanding your coverage and next steps

• No insurance?

  • Reach out to local community organizations, charities, or emergency assistance programs. They may offer temporary housing, clothing, food, and other essentials.

🏠 Step 2: Safety First

Is your home safe to enter?

• Do not re-enter your home until the Fire Department confirms it is safe.
  📞 Contact Nanaimo Fire Rescue: 250-753-7311

Utilities check:

• The Fire Department will assess your utilities (gas, electricity, water) before leaving the scene.
• Never attempt to reconnect utilities yourself.
• Contact your utility providers to arrange for safe reconnection.

📋 Step 3: Documenting Damage

Inventory of losses:

• Create a detailed list of all damaged or destroyed items.
• Take photos or videos of each room and item.
• Do not discard anything until your insurance adjuster has reviewed it.

Important documents to locate:

• Identification (driver’s license, passport)
• Insurance policies
• Financial records
• Medical records
• Property deeds or lease agreements

Tip: Keep all receipts for expenses related to the fire (e.g., hotel stays, clothing, meals). These may be reimbursable.

🏦 Step 4: Notify Key Contacts

• Mortgage lender or landlord: Inform them of the fire and any damage to the property.
• Employer or school: Let them know if you’ll need time off or support.
• Canada Post: Consider forwarding your mail if you’re temporarily displaced.

👨‍👩‍👧 Step 5: Supporting Children After a Fire

Children may react strongly to the trauma of a fire. Watch for signs such as:

• Sudden changes in behavior (e.g., aggression, withdrawal)
• Fear of being alone or sleeping in the dark
• Nightmares or trouble sleeping
• Increased clinginess or anxiety

How to help:

• Talk openly and calmly about what happened
• Encourage them to express feelings through words, drawings, or play
• Reassure them that they are safe and cared for
• Maintain routines to provide a sense of stability
• Use calming activities like music or storytelling
• Seek professional mental health support if needed

💬 Need More Help?

If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact Nanaimo Fire Rescue Fire Loss & Prevention Department at 250-753-7311 or visit our Fire Recovery Resources page.