After the Fire. A Recovery Handbook. Norwalk Fire Department. Office of Emergency Management

Transcription

1 After the Fire A Recovery Handbook Norwalk Fire Department Office of Emergency Management 1/

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS A Letter from the Fire Chief 3 After the Fire- A Quick Checklist 4 A Word About Fire Department Operations 5 The First 24 Hours 6 Insurance 8 If you are insured 9 If you are not insured 10 Valuing Your Property 11 Leaving your Home 11 Restoration Services 12 Replacement of Valuable Documents and Records 13 Returning Home 14 After Your Home Has Been Declared Safe 15 Damage from smoke and fire 15 Damage from water 16 Cleaning Up 17 Money Replacement 21 Repairs and Moving Forward 22 Preparedness and Rebuilding 23 Your Emotions After the Fire 24 Helping Your Pets 25 The Fire Investigation 26 Important Phone Numbers 28 2

3 A LETTER FROM THE FIRE CHIEF Going through a fire can be a terrible and often devastating experience. If the fire was severe e or if someone was injured, then you are probably feeling overwhelmed at this point. The feelings of shock, loss, grief and confusion that often accompany this crisis are completely normal, but can make the difficult process of recovery physically ly and mentally draining. It is important for you to realize and remember as you struggle to t return to a normal life that you are not alone. It is unfortunately true that structure fires are not rare. Every year, thousands of Americans go through the same experience as you are at this moment. Most of them have found, as we are sure you will find,, that recovery is possible. There is professional help available from both community agencies and private companies to assist you in restoring your home and belongings and help you start the process of returning your lives to normal. The process of recovery is not automatic. The decisions you will have to make are sometimes difficult and always important. It is not always clear how to begin or what steps to take. Our purpose in bringing you this handbook is to help you through the recovery process. The Norwalk Fire Department regrets that you have a need for this handbook, and we hope this information will help make this experience a little more bearable. Our goal is to help make a confusing situation a little more manageable or a frightening one a little e less overwhelming. Sincerely, Fire Chief Denis McCarthy 3

4 QUICK CHECKLIST The following checklist can serve as a quick reference and guide for you after a fire strikes. Contact your local disaster relief service, such as the Red Cross, if you need temporary housing, food, and medicines. If you are insured, contact your insurance company for detailed instructions on protecting the property, conducting inventory, and contacting fire damage restoration companies. If you are not insured, try contacting private organizations for aid and assistance. Check with the fire department to make sure your residence is safe to enter. Be watchful of any structural damage caused by fire. The fire department should see that utilities are either safe to use or are disconnected before they leave the site. DO NOT attempt to reconnect utilities yourself. Conduct an inventory of damaged property and items. Do not throw away any damaged goods until after an inventory is made. Try to locate valuable documents and records. Refer to information on contacts and the replacement process inside this brochure. If you leave your home, contact the local police department to let them know the site will be unoccupied. Begin saving receipts for any money you spend related to fire loss. The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company and for verifying losses claimed on income tax. Notify your mortgage company of the fire. Check with an accountant or the Internal Revenue Service about special benefits for people recovering from fire loss. The Fire Department can help make arrangements to board up your home if you ask. Clean up companies and appraisers often show up during the fire and may try to pressure you to sign repair contracts. Don t feel pressured to sign any contracts. Contact your insurance company first. If you don t have insurance, take the information and review it when you re in a safer and quieter setting. 4

5 A WORD ABOUT FIRE DEPARTMENT OPERATIONS In the aftermath of a serious fire, it may seem that the firefighters contributed to the already damaged structure, but this is done for a number of reasons. Once the fire is out, the firefighters must make sure it does not start again. It is important to note that an insurance policy s protection typically covers damage done in fighting the fire. Common Questions Q. Why are windows broken or holes cut in the roof? As a fire burns, it moves upward, then outward. Breaking the windows and/or cutting holes in the roof (called ventilation) slows the damaging outward movement, helps remove blinding smoke that obscures the actual fire, and enables firefighters to fight the fire more efficiently. The result of this action is less damage to the structure in the long run. Another reason is to help exhaust the toxic gases and superheated air caused by the fire. This venting effect also reduces the enormous pressure often created inside the structure by the extreme heat of the fire. So these actions can help reduce damage by inhibiting the fire s spread and protects the firefighters. Q. Why are holes cut in walls? This is done so that the fire department is absolutely sure that the fire is completely out, and that there is no fire inside the walls or in other hidden places. Smoldering embers inside walls or under floors can rekindle a fire with amazing force, even long after it seems the fire has gone out. Q. Is it possible to obtain a copy of the fire report? In most localities, a fire report is a public document and is available at the fire department or fire marshal s office. Q. We ve been displaced from our home and can t stay with family or friends, what do we do? If you don t have a safe place to stay and need assistance, let the Fire Department know. They can contact the American Red Cross who can make arrangements at a local hotel. The Red Cross can also provide assistance for food and clothing if needed. 5

6 THE FIRST 24 HOURS Immediately after a fire there are some important steps to take and decisions you need to make to help protect your property and make your recovery easier and faster. The following is a list of helpful do s and don t. It is unlikely that you will need to use all of the information provided, so use whatever information applies to your situation and common sense dictates. DO S Do: Contact your insurance company immediately to report your loss. They will send a company adjuster to discuss your situation and possibly help with repairs. Your property needs to be protected from further damage, weather, vandalism and theft. Do: Have any injuries treated by a medical professional. Wash small wounds with soap and water. To help prevent infection of small wounds, use bandages and replace them if they become soiled, damaged or waterlogged. Do: Remain calm. Pace yourself. You may find yourself in the position of taking charge of other people. Listen carefully to what people are telling you, and deal patiently with urgent situations first. Do: Contact your local disaster relief service, such as the American Red Cross or the Salvation Army, to help with your immediate needs, such as: temporary housing; food; medicine; eyeglasses; clothing; and other essential items. Emergency relief is given regardless of income or documentation status. Do: arrange for board-up of your property, if necessary, but be sure that is all specified in the work order. Be sure any holes are covered to prevent entry of rain or intruders, make certain any outside doors can be locked or are covered. The Fire Department or your insurance company will help you with this process. Do: remove your children, elderly family members and pets (especially birds) to a cleaner and safer environment. Do: remove any valuables remaining in the building if you plan to leave the site of the fire. Try to locate and take with you the following items: Identification, such as driver s licenses and social security cards 6

7 Vital medication: if the medication was exposed to heat, smoke or water, it should be replaced Eyeglasses, hearing aids, prosthetic devices and other personal Valuables and documents such as; insurance policies, check books, credit cards, savings account records, safe deposit box keys, cash and jewelry. Do: Notify the following parties of your situation and where you are relocating to (Especially if the relocation may be for a longer time). Use the checklist below to help you. Your insurance agent or adjuster Your family and friends. Your mortgage company Your employer Your children s school The post office (they can hold or forward your mail, depending on the duration of your relocation) The newspaper and any magazine subscriptions or other delivery services. The local fire department, if the fire is under investigation or additional information or resources are needed. The utility companies The City Tax Assessor s office The DMV, your bank and credit card companies Do: If you are the tenant: Contact the resident manager, the owner or the owner s insurance agent. It is the responsibility of the owner to prevent any further damage or loss at the site. It is your responsibility to make sure that your personal belongings are secure, either in the building or moved to another location. Normally, the fire department will see that utilities (water, electricity and natural gas) either are safe to use or are disconnected before they leave the site. Do not attempt to turn on utilities yourself. 7

8 Be careful of structural damage caused by the fire. Roofs and floors may be damaged and subject to collapse. Just as there are many steps you must take to protect you and your property there are many things you must not do. We hope the following information will help you avoid any unnecessary delays in your recovery. DON Ts Don t enter the damaged residence unattended or without permission from the Fire Department. Fires can rekindle from hidden, smoldering remains. Don t eat or drink food, beverages, and medicine that have been exposed to heat, smoke, soot, and water. Don t: Sign anything immediate after any property damage to your home or business. Take the time to read thoroughly any fine print on any work form and read and try to understand your insurance policy. Don t: Give anyone carte blanche permission for any repairs or work to be done on your property and make sure you see a detailed estimate of the work to be done. Don t: leave the site until it has been secured. Don t: if you have a fire safe, do not open it at this time, even if there are important documents inside. If the safe was exposed to the fire, extreme heat van build up inside the safe, even if it s cool to the touch., if you open it the air rushing in and combining with the heat inside the safe could ignite the contents. Don t: Throw away any damaged property until after an inventory is made. All damages are taken into consideration when developing your insurance claim; also the inventory is important for tax purposes. INSURANCE Dealing with and understanding your insurance policy can the most confusing and timely potion of your recovery process. For most people having insurance is like having a life preserver and not knowing how to use it when it s needed the most. When you are a victim of a fire your life and business can come to an abrupt halt. The quicker you can recover the smaller the loss of time and money can be. 8

9 Your insurance company entitles you to certain rights and imposes obligations on both you and your insurance company. It is extremely important to understand your insurance policy and know how to properly file your claim. Unfortunately, the insurance process can be confusing and sometimes frustrating. Ideally your insurance company will walk you through this process and will help make your recovery easier and faster. If you have questions or have difficulties with your insurance company, contact the State of Connecticut Insurance Department at or visit IF YOU ARE INSURED Do: Give notice of the loss to the insurance company or the insurer s agent/company. Do: Ask the insurance company what to do about the immediate needs of the dwelling, such as covering doors, windows, and other exposed areas, and pumping out water. Do: Ask your insurance agent/company what actions are required of you. Some policyholders may be required to make an inventory of damaged personal property showing in detail the quantity, description, and how much you paid for the items. Do: Check your coverage for payment for temporary housing or immediate funds. Ask your insurance agent about how soon you might get an advance on your eventual insurance claim. Do: Prepare a list of damages or lost items and provide receipts if possible. Consider taking photographs or videotaping the damage where it occurred for further documentation to your claim. Do: BEGIN NOW! If you are insured, begin collecting receipts for any money you spend. These receipts are important in showing the insurance company that any money you will spend relates to your fire loss and also for verifying losses claimed on your federal income tax. Do: make copies of all documents and pictures before they are given to your claims adjustor or insurance company. Do: Make sure the utilities are turned off. Water at the valve where the water enters the building, gas and electricity at the meter. Do not use any utility until it has been inspected by the utility company or a skilled professional. 9

10 IF YOU ARE NOT INSURED Disasters such as a fire can catch us unprepared to cope with it, and not having property insurance makes recovery even more difficult. Fortunately there are government and private agencies that are willing to help if you don t have insurance or your insurance is inadequate to cover your loss. Your recovery from a fire loss may be based upon your own resources and help from your community. Do: contact your local American Red Cross or the Salvation Army. Aid is given without regard to income and does not expect repayment for any assistance. Do: contact other private organizations that may be able to provide assistance and ask for referrals. Possible sources of assistance include CT Department of Social Services, religious organizations, civic organizations, non-profit crisis counseling centers and community based health centers. Do: keep all receipts that record any money you spend on your recovery. Losses due to a fire are deductible from your federal income tax. Obtain and keep any receipts and records of the money you spend in repairing or replacing damaged property, and money used to cover your living expenses during the recovery period. If your loss was larger than your total income for that year, you may be eligible for a tax return. Check with an accountant for more information or visit the Internal Revenue Service office located at 24 Belden Ave in Norwalk. Office hours are M-F from 8:30-11:30 and 12:30-4:30 or go to Lack of insurance before this tragedy doesn t mean all is lost. With a little perseverance and help from community agencies you will recover. 10

11 VALUING YOUR PROPERTY You will encounter different viewpoints on the value of your property in adjusting your fire loss or in claiming a casualty loss on your Federal income tax. Knowing the following terms will help you understand the process used to determine the value of your fire loss: Your personal valuation: Your personal loss of goods through fire may be difficult to measure. These personal items have SENTIMENTAL VALUE to you; however, it is objective measures of value that you, the insurer, and the Internal Revenue Service will use as a common ground for discussion. Some of these objective measures are discussed below. Cost when purchased: This is an important element in establishing an item s final value. Receipts will help verify the cost price. Fair market value before the fire: This concept is also expressed as ACTUAL CASH VALUE. This is what you could have received for the item if you had sold it the day before the fire. The price would reflect its cost at purchase minus the wear it had sustained since purchase. DEPRECIATION is the formal term used to express the amount of value an item loses over a period of time. Value after the fire: This is sometimes called the item s salvage value. LEAVING YOUR HOME Contact your local police department to let them know that the site will be unoccupied. If a fire affects a limited number of people, the Red Cross usually can provide accommodations at a local hotel for a few days. If a fire affects a larger number of residents, a shelter may be set up. Whether you stay with friends or family, at a hotel or shelter, it s important to remember these are short term arrangements and you should begin making plans. If time is limited and you re allowed to gather some clothes, try to find a full laundry basket. This will usually provide a few complete changes of clothes for each family member. In some cases it may be necessary to board up openings to discourage trespassers. 11

12 RESTORATION SERVICES There are companies that specialize in the restoration of fire-damaged structures. Whether you or your insurer employs this type of service, be clear on who will pay. Be sure to request an estimate of cost for the work. Before any company is hired, check its references. These companies provide a range of services that may include some or all of the following: securing the site against further damage estimating structural damage repairing structural damage estimating the cost to repair or renew items of personal property packing, transportation, and storage of household items securing appropriate cleaning or repair subcontractors storing repaired items until needed While the Fire Department can t recommend one service over another, the following is a list of companies in the Norwalk area that specialize in water and fire damage restoration services. Company Toll-Free Phone # Local Phone # ServePro: JP McGuire: Service Master Clean- Norwalk/Westport Crystal Cleaning and Restoration Al s Waterproofing and Restoration

13 REPLACEMENT OF VALUABLE DOCUMENTS AND RECORDS Here s a list of documents you will need to replace if they have been destroyed, and who to contact for information on or assistance with the replacement process. ITEM WHO TO CONTACT Driver s license, auto registration Department of motor vehicles Bank books (checking, savings, etc.) Your bank, as soon as possible Insurance policies Your insurance agent Military discharge papers Department of Veterans Affairs (or TDD/TTY Passports State Department- Passport Services (24 hours) Birth, death, and marriage certificates Bureau of Records in the appropriate State Divorce papers Circuit court where decree was issued Social Security or Medicare cards Local Social Security office or or TTD/TTY Credit cards The issuing companies, as soon as possible Titles to deeds Records department of the locality in which the property is located Stocks and bonds Issuing company or your broker Wills Your lawyer Medical records Your doctor Warranties Issuing company Income tax records The IRS center where filed, or your accountant Or Citizenship papers Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services Prepaid burial contract Issuing company Animal registration papers Humane Society Mortgage papers Lending institution 13

14 RETURNING HOME Do not go into a fire damaged structure unless you are absolutely sure it is safe. Your personal safety and that of anyone helping you must be your first concern. A building that s been damaged by fire usually contains hazards that can cause injury or affect your health. How do you know it s safe? In most communities there are usually two public agencies responsible for determining this; the fire department and the building department. One or both of these agencies should be able to help you when it s time to re-enter your home. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT Your first and often best source of information about safety will be the Fire Marshal or his fire inspectors on the scene. If you were there after they put the fire out, usually one of them would have approached you to spend some time advising you about when and if you could go back in. If for some reason you did not get this information, call the Fire Marshal s Office at THE BUILDING DEPARTMENT Usually if the fire is severe or if firefighters suspect structural damage, they will notify the building department and request an inspector. If the building inspector finds the building unsafethen he ll usually post it with unsafe to re-occupy notices. Whether or not the building is posted you should contact your building department with the following questions: was the building inspected after the fire? If so, what were the inspector s findings? If not are they going to inspect it? If they did inspect it, they should be able to tell you what, if anything, you can do in and around the building. If they did not clear it for re-occupation then they should be able to tell you what specifically needs to be done before they will. IF they did not inspect it, but an inspection is scheduled, you must wait for the findings before you can go into the building. THE HEALTH DEPARTMENT The primary goal of the Housing Section is to ensure safe and sanitary housing and maintain the existing housing stock for all of Norwalk's residents. Housing inspectors provide inspections for residential housing for compliance with the Norwalk Housing Code and State regulations. 14

15 The affordable housing and relocation program continues to assist low and moderate income families to find safe, secure affordable housing within the community. Counseling is provided to families that have been displaced as a result of code enforcement activities, fires, as well as other personal and financial catastrophes. AFTER YOUR HOME HAS BEEN DECLARED SAFE Start to clean up the mess. The following do s and don ts will give you tips on how to minimize your loss, help prevent further damage and help safeguard you and your family. If power is out, use a flashlight to inspect for damage or serve as alternate lighting. Don t use any open flame, such as candles or kerosene. DAMAGE FROM FIRE AND SMOKE DO S Do: clean and protect chrome trim in kitchen and bathroom with a light coat of oil or Vaseline. Do: use a mask with a HEPA filter while cleaning and working in your fire-damaged residence. Do: blow off or brush-vacuum any loose dust of smoke particles from upholstery. Do: open windows for ventilation Do: change furnace filter if blower is still operating Do: if electricity is off, and you have someplace to take it, remove food from refrigerator and freezer and prop doors open. Do: When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe even at a trickle helps prevent pipes from freezing because the temperature of the water running through it is above freezing. Do: to prevent freezing, pour anti-freeze in toilets, sinks and tubs, this procedure only applies for areas that are experiencing cold or freezing weather. Do: wash plants with water; be sure to clean both sides of the leaves. 15

16 DON TS Don t: use upholstered furniture if avoidable, smoke, soot or dirt will be harder to remove if you use the furniture. Don t: use food or canned goods exposed to excessive heat, water or smoke. Don t: use electrical appliances until they have been cleaned and checked. Don t: send garments or fabrics to an ordinary dry cleaner, if cleaned improperly smoke and odor may be set into the fabric. DAMAGE FROM WATER DO S Do: remove as much water as possible by mopping or blotting Do: remove water from wood furniture Do: prop up wet cushions for even drying. Do: place blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting. Do: turn on air conditioning in the summer or open windows during the winter to speed drying. Do not use heat. Do: open drawers and cabinets to speed drying. Do not use heat. Do Do: remove valuable items (art, rugs, paintings, etc) to a safe place. Do: if the ceiling is sagging from trapped water, punch holes in the ceiling to let the water out. Don t forget to place pans under the holes to catch the water. Be careful when punching holes in ceiling since it could collapse and cause injury. DON TS Don t: let wet fabrics, furs or leather sit, dry as soon as possible Don t: leave books, magazines, or other printed items on wet carpets or floors. 16

17 Don t: use your household vacuum to remove water Don t: use TV s or other appliances while standing on wet carpet or floors, especially on wet concrete. Don t: turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet and stay out of rooms with sagging ceilings until the water is released. CLEANING UP. LET S BEGIN Having reassured that it s safe, you re ready to begin working on your home s furnishings and personal belongings. Some of the issues discussed in this section you may take care of yourself for others professional fire and water damage restoration businesses may be the best source of cleaning and restoring your personal belongings. There are three main sources of damage in a house fire: flames/heat, smoke and water. Each of these or their combination can damage virtually everything in your home. Clothing A word of caution before you begin: test garments before using any treatment, and follow the manufacturer s instructions. Several of the cleaning mixtures described in this section contain the substance Tri- Sodium Phosphate. This substance can be purchased under the generic name TSP. Tri-Sodium Phosphate is a caustic substance used commonly as a cleaning agent. It should be used with care and stored out of reach of children and pets. Wear rubber gloves when using if you have sensitive skin. Read the label for further information. Smoke odor and soot sometimes can be washed from clothing. The following formula may work for clothing that can be bleached: 4 to 6 tbsp. Tri-Sodium Phosphate; 1 cup household cleaner or chlorine bleach: and 1 gallon warm water. Mix well, add clothes, and rinse with clear water. Dry thoroughly. 17

18 An effective way to remove mildew from clothing is to wash the fresh stain with soap and warm water, rinse, and then dry in the sun. If the stain has not disappeared, use lemon juice and salt or a diluted solution of household chlorine bleach. Cooking Utensils Your pots, pans, flatware, etc., should be washed with soapy water, rinsed, and then polished with a fine-powdered cleaner. You can polish copper and brass with special polish, salt sprinkled on a piece of lemon, or salt sprinkled on a cloth saturated with vinegar. Electrical Appliances Don t use appliances that have been exposed to water or steam until you have a service representative check them. This is especially true of electrical appliances. In addition, steam can remove the lubricant from some moving parts. All electronic items and appliances that are wet or badly soiled will have to be serviced. The retailer where you bought the equipment may be able to refer you to a service center. Gas appliances; stoves, dryers, furnaces, water heaters, etc should be checked and restored to service by a representative of your gas company or a service person specializing in this type of equipment. If the Fire Department turned off your gas or power during the fire, call the electric or gas company to restore these services. Do not try to restore these utilities by yourself. Food Packaged and canned goods need to be checked carefully. If a package is soaked or scorched, it s best to throw it away. Wash your canned goods in detergent and water. Do the same for food in jars. If labels come off, be sure you mark the contents on the can or jar with a grease pencil. Do not use canned goods when the cans have bulged, dented or rusted. Your power will probably have been turned off, so leave the refrigerator and freezer closed until you can make arrangements for temporary storage. If the food in your freezer is frozen, you can move it to another freezer, if it s thawed, it can t be re-frozen. Be careful of any food in your refrigerator or freezer that s come up to room temperature. If you have any doubt, throw the food out. 18

19 To remove odor from your refrigerator or freezer, wash the inside with a solution of baking soda and water, or use one cup of vinegar or household ammonia to one gallon of water. Baking soda in an open container or a piece of charcoal or ground coffee also can be placed in the refrigerator or freezer to absorb odor. If the appliances are going to be out of service awhile, leave them open. Rugs and Carpets Rugs and carpets should be allowed to dry thoroughly. Throw rugs can be cleaned by beating, sweeping, or vacuuming, and then shampooing. Rugs should be dried as quickly as possible--lay them flat and expose them to warm, circulated, dry air. A fan turned on the rugs will speed drying. Make sure the rugs are thoroughly dry. Even though the surface seems dry, moisture remaining at the base of the tufts can quickly cause the rug to rot. For information on cleaning and preserving carpets, call your carpet dealer or installer or a qualified carpet cleaning professional. Soot stained and wet furniture should be dried as much as possible and brushed off- a wet/dry vacuum can be a big help here. Do not use your household vacuum to remove water. They are not suited for water and serious electrical shock may occur! Leather and Books Wipe leather goods with a damp cloth, then a dry cloth. Stuff purses and shoes with newspaper to retain shape. Leave suitcases open. Leather goods should be dried away from heat and sun. When leather goods are dry, clean with saddle soap. Rinse leather and suede jackets in cold water and dry away from heat and sun. Wet books must be taken care of as soon as possible. The best method to save wet books is to freeze them in a vacuum freezer. This special freezer will remove the moisture without damaging the pages. If there will be a delay in locating such a freezer, place them in a normal freezer until a vacuum freezer can be located. A local librarian also can be a good resource. Photographs Photographs, like art, can be restored. Unfortunately this is often expensive. If you decide to have an irreplaceable photo restored, 19

20 then move the damaged photo(s) to a dry area. Do not try to separate photos that are stuck together. Make arrangements with a qualified restorer immediately, delay usually increases the difficulty of restoration. Locks and Hinges Locks (especially iron locks) should be taken apart and wiped with oil. If locks cannot be removed, squirt machine oil through a bolt opening or keyhole, and work the knob to distribute the oil. Hinges also should be thoroughly cleaned and oiled. Walls, Floors and Furniture To remove soot and smoke from walls, floors, and furniture use a mild soap or detergent or mix together the following solution: 4 to 6 tbsp. Tri-Sodium Phosphate; 1 cup household cleaner or chlorine bleach; and 1 gallon warm water. Wear rubber gloves and eye protection when cleaning with this solution. Be sure to rinse your walls and furniture with clear warm water and dry thoroughly after washing them with this solution. Wash a small area at one time, working from the floor up. Then rinse the wall with clear water immediately. Ceilings should be washed last. Do not repaint until walls and ceilings are completely dry. Your wallpaper also can be repaired. Use a commercial paste to re-paste a loose edge or section. Contact your wallpaper dealer or installer for information on wallpaper cleaners. Washable wallpaper can be cleansed like any ordinary wall, but take care not to soak the paper. Work from bottom to top to prevent streaking. Wood Furniture Do not dry your furniture in the sun. The wood will warp and twist out of shape. Clear off mud and dirt. 20

21 Remove drawers. Let them dry thoroughly so there will be no sticking when you replace them. Scrub wood furniture or fixtures with a stiff brush and a cleaning solution. Wet wood can decay and mold, so dry thoroughly. Open doors and windows to ensure good ventilation. Turn on your furnace or air conditioner, if necessary. If mold forms wipe the wood with a cloth soaked in a mixture of borax dissolved in hot water. To remove white spots or film, rub the wood surface with a cloth soaked in a solution of 1/2 cup household ammonia and 1/2 cup water. Then wipe the surface dry and polish with wax or rub the surface with a cloth soaked in a solution of 1/2 cup turpentine and 1/2 cup linseed oil. Be careful--turpentine is flammable (depending on turpentine s flashpoint). You can also rub the wood surface with a fine-grade steel wool pad dipped in liquid polishing wax; clean the area with a soft cloth, and then buff. Checking household items Normal household items such, such as cleaning products can cause toxic fumes and other hazards if they mix. If you smell a strong, sickening odor or you eyes water from fumes from mixed chemicals, open a window and get out of your residence and call for assistance. Money Replacement Handle burned money as little as possible. Attempt to encase each bill or portion of a bill in plastic wrap for preservation. If money is only half-burned or less (if half or more is still intact), you can take the remainder to your regional Federal Reserve Bank for replacement. Ask your bank for the nearest one. Or you can mail the burned or torn money by registered mail, return receipt requested to Department of the Treasury Bureau of Engraving and Printing Office of Currency Standards P.O. Box Washington, DC Mutilated or melted coins can be taken to your regional Federal Reserve Bank or mailed by registered mail, return receipt requested to: Superintendent U.S. Mint P.O. Box 400 Philadelphia, PA

22 If your U.S. Savings Bonds have been destroyed or mutilated, you must obtain Department of Treasury Form PD F 1048 (I) from your bank or and mail to: Department of the Treasury Bureau of the Public Debt Savings Bonds Operations P.O. Box 1328 Parkersburg, WV REPAIRS AND MOVING FORWARD The insurance company Every insurance company has its own way of doing business, and your best source of information is your own insurance company, but the general process described below is typical in the industry. An insurance company will often have a list of experienced contractors, specializing in insurance repair work, which they regard as reliable and competent. When you inform your insurance company of the fire, they will often send three of these companies to look at the damage and give an estimate of repairs. Typically the homeowner is given a copy of the bid that goes to the insurance company. The insurance company s settlement of the cost of repairing the structure is based on these bids. Usually, the settlement- the insurance company s check- goes to you, the homeowner. You can then use the money to hire one of the contractors referred to the job by the insurance company, or you can hire someone else. Hiring the contactor sent by the insurance company can save you time and effort but your hands are not tied; you can hire another contractor if you choose. Finding a contractor There are contractors who are specialists in the field of fire damage repair. You may want to restrict your search to them. Here s why: restoring a fire-damaged structure is very different than remodeling a healthy one or building a new one. Fire damage presents unique problems not normally encountered in remodeling or building jobs; nor does a fire respect boundaries between different trades and types of work. Because of this, an experienced specialist in the field will often have developed expertise and capabilities that others may not have. 22

23 PREPAREDNESS AND REBUILDING Make sure that the contractor rebuilding your home obtains a building permit and follows the current building, fire and electrical codes for your area. Ask a professional about having automatic residential fire sprinklers installed during the reconstruction process. It is much less expensive to have sprinklers installed during reconstruction instead of after the construction is complete. Make sure that smoke alarms are installed following your local fire protection codes. We recommend having smoke alarms installed inside each sleeping room, hallway outside sleeping areas, and at least one on every floor of your home. The smoke alarms should be interconnected so that if one alarm sounds, all will sound. The alarms should be operated by both household power and batteries in case the household power is out. Purchase dual sensor smoke detectors which will be able to alert you to two types of fires that can occur in your home. Ionization smoke detection is generally more responsive to flaming fires and photoelectric smoke detection is generally more responsive to fires that begin with a long period of smoldering (called smoldering fires ). Make sure fire extinguishers are installed and family members know how to use them. Have a Fire Safety plan: Once you and your family are settled in your new or repaired home, make sure you identify 2 ways out of the house in case of emergency and practice a family fire drill. It is a good idea to make sure that you update your Family Disaster Plan and replenish essential disaster supplies just in case a disaster happens again. You will always feel better knowing that you are prepared and ready for anything. The Norwalk Fire Department encourages the following disaster preparedness steps: make a plan, build a kit and be informed about the types of emergencies that can occur in our area. Consider purchasing homeowner s or renter s insurance. Make copies of important documents, such as birth and marriage certificates and insurance policies, and store these in a safe place. 23

24 YOUR EMOTIONS AFTER THE FIRE Your own and your family s emotional care and recovery are just as important as rebuilding a home and healing physical injuries. You may be surprised at how you and others may feel after a disaster. Disasters can stir up many different feelings and thoughts. People may experience fear concerning their safety or that of a loved one, shock, disbelief, grief, anger and guilt. Memory problems, anxiety and/or depression are also possible after experiencing a disaster. Disasters are upsetting experiences for everyone involved. Children, senior citizens, people with disabilities and people for whom English is not their first language are especially at risk. Children may become afraid and some elderly people may seem disoriented at first. At the low point of the crisis, recovery and a return to normalcy can seem impossible, but in many ways it s a natural process. Depending on the severity of the crisis, most of us share an ability to rebound from a loss. But it isn t a smooth process, and it can t proceed entirely without help. Fortunately, help is also a part of the process. Family, friends, neighbors, often even strangers respond with sympathy and kindness. You should reach out to family, friends, your church and if needed professional help. The support you receive can reassure and encourage you as you rebuild and restore normalcy. People with disabilities may require additional assistance. It is important to let children and elderly people know that they are safe and that you will help them find a safe place to stay. Their sense of normalcy has been destroyed by the fire, leaving them insecure and frightened. You can restore that sense of security by showing that you are in charge and everything is under control. They need to see that you are handling the situation, and that they re still okay as a family and life will return to normal. When disaster strikes, a child s view of the world as a safe and predictable place is temporarily lost. Children become afraid that the event will happen again and that they or their family may be injured or killed. The damage, injuries and deaths that can result from an unexpected or uncontrollable event are difficult for most children to understand. How a parent or other adult reacts to a child following any traumatic event can help children recover more quickly and more completely. Children of different ages react in different ways to trauma. 24

25 Some basic steps you can take to meet physical and emotional needs Try to return to as many of your personal and family routines as possible. Get rest and drink plenty of water. Limit your exposure to the sights and sounds of disaster, especially on television, the radio and in the newspapers. Focus on the positive. Recognize your own feelings. Reach out and accept help from others. Do something you enjoy. Do something as a family that you have all enjoyed in the past. Stay connected with your family and/or other support systems. Realize that, sometimes, recovery can take time. If you have more questions or observe unusual behavior in your children, who you think may be caused by a reaction to the disaster, contact you child s school or counselor or community professional for additional information and help. HELPING PETS If you have pets, try to find and comfort them. A scared animal may react by biting or scratching. Handle animals carefully and calmly. Pets can become upset and react in unusual ways, such as spraying urine, defecating on floors or scratching/biting furnishings. Since pets will need regular care and attention to help them calm down, try to leave pets with a family member, friend, veterinarian or boarding facility while you are cleaning up your home. Animals are naturally inquisitive and could be injured if they are brought back to a damaged home. Use toys, a blanket or favorite human s unsoiled clothing to comfort pets. Make sure pets are fed their usual diet, and have plenty of water. Visit your pets regularly, speak calmly and take some time out to play with them. Doing so can also help you in your recovery, as well. 25

26 THE FIRE INVESTIGATION What to expect After the smoke has cleared, the first question is usually what happened? Sometimes the answer is obvious. But, when damage is great, the source of the fire may be hard to find or may never be determined. There are a number of reasons why a cause of the fire needs to be made, and there are various involved or interested parties that need these answers. Fire codes give the Fire Marshal and his Investigators the responsibility of determining cause. Occasionally the State or Federal agents are requested to assist. When the local authority determines the fire is accidental in nature, or is unable to find the cause, there is usually nothing further to be done. In a few cases the accidental fire is thoroughly investigated to identify and photograph faulty appliances, wiring, equipment, etc. This information is helpful in future fire prevention activity. Even when the fire is accidentally, there are other considerations. Insurance companies, property owners, tenants, and others may have interests. These considerations may be addressed in civil procedures. These relate to the private rights of individuals (and companies) and to legal proceedings connected with these rights. The reason is financial.money that is paid to, or received from others as the result of loss or injury from the fire. It is not the responsibility of the local authority to resolve civil disputes. The private fire investigator is necessary to supplement information gathered by the local authorities. The private fire investigator should perform an independent, objective inquiry. His or her training and experience should make him acceptable as an expert witness in Superior or Federal courts if necessary. He should be cooperative and communicate with local authorities and be aware of any conflicting opinions concerning the cause of the fire. If the private investigator uncovers evidence of a crime, it is his duty to advise the local authority. In many ways the private investigator s work will parallel that of the local authority. This is where people involved in a fire can make the complaint, I just gave all that information to the fire department, why do I have to repeat it?! The reason is the private investigator, like the local 26

27 authority must obtain first-hand information from involved parties and witnesses in order to avoid misunderstandings. The accumulation of information from physical evidence, observation and witnesses by the private fire investigator may not be understood by the fire victim and may not directly affect them. Insured persons are compensated even if the fire is an act of carelessness. But finding of the private investigator and the local authority can assist those who incur a financial burden as a result of the fire in a process called subrogation. Subrogation is a means to properly and fairly place the burden of the fire loss; the insurance carrier will first adjust the loss to compensate the policy holder in accordance with the insurance contract. If the fire was caused by an appliance that overheated, or by the act of a third party, such as a tradesman doing repair work, the insurance company will attempt to recover money from that third party. The subrogation process addresses the question of who is actually responsible, or who has liability for the fire. The ultimate purpose is to have the responsible party pay for the damages. In summary, the purpose of all fire investigations is to determine what caused the fire. Fire Prevention and subrogation both serve important functions and are based on sound fire investigation findings. 27

28 IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS The following is a list of local emergency numbers for you to call to assist in your recovery Emergency: Police- Fire Ambulance: Norwalk Fire Department: Main Number: Fire Marshal s Office: Emergency Management: (for recovery information or referrals) Norwalk Health Department: Norwalk Police Dept- Records Division: Code Enforcement: Norwalk Housing Authority: American Red Cross: Mid-Fairfield County Chapter: Fair Rent/ Human Relations: Tax Assessor: City Clerk to obtain records: Christian Community Action: (may provide food, clothing, furniture): Salvation Army: United Way Infoline: can provide local, regional and state referrals: Norwalk Emergency Shelter (shelter, food, housing coordinator, furniture, etc): The Norwalk Fire Department regrets that you had a need for this handbook, and we hope that the information provided was helpful in speeding your recovery from the fire. Your opinions are very valuable to us, please let us know what information was most helpful, or if there was information you needed that wasn t provided. Please call the Office of Emergency Management at with any comments or suggestions. We wish you and your family a speedy recovery from this event. 28