What to do after a fire
A fire in your home or business can cause significant damage. Flames, heat, smoke, and water from firefighting efforts can all severely affect your property and belongings. Even items that seem unaffected by the fire may be ruined by smoke or soaked with water used to extinguish the flames. Any belongings you want to salvage will need to be carefully cleaned.
To control the fire, firefighters may have broken windows or cut holes in the roof to slow the fire's spread and remove the smoke, which can make it hard to see. They may also have cut into the walls to ensure the fire is fully extinguished and not hidden inside.
It's important to remember that even after the fire is out, there are risks to your health and safety, such as soot, smoke residue, and contaminated water, which can be harmful.
Below you will find information and resources available to contact after a fire in your home or business.
-
After a fire in your home or business, it's crucial to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process. Notifying them promptly ensures that you receive the coverage you're entitled to for repairs, replacement of damaged property, and potential additional living or business interruption expenses. The sooner you report the incident, the faster the insurance company can assess the damage, guide you through the next steps, and help you begin the recovery process. Delaying contact could result in complications or delays in receiving the support you need during this challenging time.
-
To obtain a copy of the fire report after a fire at your home or business, please contact the Greenwood Fire Department at 317-882-2599 Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 4 PM. Please note that the report will not be immediately available, as the investigators need time to complete their investigation. Certain factors pertaining to the fire can prolong the duration needed to complete the report. ie: Lab results, state investigations, scene processing etc.
Additionally, check with your insurance company to confirm whether you need to request the report directly, or if they will obtain it on your behalf as part of the claims process.
-
Get in touch with your landlord or mortgage lender.
Contact your credit card company to report credit cards that were lost in the fire.
Save all of your receipts for any money you spend. The receipts may be needed later by the insurance company, and you will need them to prove losses claimed on your tax return.
-
You may want to replace many of the following documents if they were destroyed or lost in the fire:
Property deeds/Wills.
Insurance policies.
Military discharge papers.
Passports.
Birth, death and marriage certificates.
Divorce papers.
Social security or Medicare cards.
Credit cards.
Stocks and bonds.
Medical records.
Warranties.
Income tax records.
Citizenship papers.
-
Indianapolis Office - 1-888-684-1445
The American Red Cross may provide immediate disaster relief after a fire, including:
Food, water, and snacks
Temporary shelter
Hygiene items
Emotional support
Help with prescription refills or medical equipment
Referrals to organizations that help with long-term needs
-
Indianapolis Headquarters - 1-800-589-1037
The Salvation Army can mobilize to provide people with food, water, and emergency shelter. They may provide mobile showers, bottled water, and a clean blanket to anyone in need. Additionally they deliver emotional and spiritual care that first responders and survivors' desire.
-
Fire Angel’s aims to help the families who’ve suffered the devastation of a fire to their home.
Emergency Line: 317-668-9796
-
Click Here to view a list of local food pantries.