Article
What to do in the first 48 hours after a fire
The first two days after a fire are stressful, and they also decide how much of the property can be saved. This is a practical checklist.
Safety first
- Only go back in when the rescue service has released the building.
- Do not switch the electricity back on in damaged areas. Do not use appliances that were in the smoke.
- Wear at least a proper particle respirator (FFP3 or P3) if you have to enter. Soot is not harmless dust.
Protect and document
- Take photos and videos of every room before anything is moved or cleaned.
- Contact your insurer as soon as possible and note the claim number.
- Keep doors to clean rooms closed. Ventilate only if it is safe and does not blow soot into other rooms.
- Remove valuables, documents and medicines if it is safe to do so.
What not to do
- Do not wipe soot with a wet cloth.
- Do not paint over stains or smell.
- Do not throw away damaged items before the insurer has seen them or they have been photographed.
- Do not leave firefighting water standing. The longer it stays, the more has to be removed.
When to call us
As early as possible. We can start with emergency stabilisation and documentation while the insurance claim is being opened.
Need help with fire damage? Send us photos and the address and we will tell you what we would do first.
Tell us what happened.
Send us photos and the address. We confirm the scope, the price basis and the start date before anyone goes on site.