The first 48 hours
| When | What happens |
|---|---|
| Right after the fire | Fire department clears the scene. You may not enter until it is safe. |
| Hours 1 to 6 | Board-up and roof tarps secure openings. Utilities are shut off or checked. |
| Hours 6 to 24 | Firefighting water is extracted. Wet materials are removed. Dehumidification starts. |
| Hours 24 to 48 | Soot is vacuumed and stabilized. Contents are inventoried and packed if needed. |
What you should do
- Check with the fire department before entering.
- Call your insurance company and start a claim.
- Photograph and video the damage.
- Save receipts for emergency lodging and supplies.
- Keep the HVAC off to avoid spreading smoke.
- Find a safe place to stay. Charities such as the Red Cross can help in the first days.
Why speed matters
Soot is acidic and, left on metal, glass and finishes, causes permanent etching. Water from firefighting soaks walls and floors and can turn to mold within days. Emergency work limits both. The cleaning stage is covered in fire damage cleanup, and the water side is explained in emergency water damage restoration.
For the full picture, see fire damage restoration. If the fire was small and the main loss is water, start at water damage restoration in Garland, TX.
Ready to talk to someone?
Describe what happened and your ZIP code. You will be connected with an independent provider.
Frequently asked questions
Who boards up the house after a fire?
Restoration providers can board up and tarp the property. Ask your insurer if they have preferred vendors and keep receipts.
Can I go back into my home after a fire?
Only when the Garland Fire Department says it is safe. Structural damage, electrical hazards and air quality may make entry unsafe.
How fast should I call?
Call as soon as the fire department releases the scene. Soot and water damage worsen with time.
Does my insurance cover emergency services?
Often yes, as part of protecting the property. Keep receipts and notify your insurer promptly.