Affirmation: Inhale, exhale. Things are tough right now. And step by step, I will rebuild and create a stable future for myself. I am capable of navigating this challenge. I have people supporting me.Register with the American Red Cross Safe & Well
Let those who are looking for you know that you are safe
Register with FEMA, if applicable
Start the process so you can get back on your feet faster
Get a P.O. Box
Have all your mail forwarded to the Box and use it as your mailing address for all forms you begin to fill out
Call your homeowners/renters insurance
Ask about all the coverage you are entitled to, even immediate access to funds for essentials (clothes, toothbrushes, food, etc.)
It will get the process started for your claim on your home and rebuilding/personal property dollars
Ask lots of questions and take notes!
Call the rest of your insurance points as needed
Car insurance and any specialty insurance for unique items
Start searching for a long-term rental
Coordinate with insurance company about available resources
Find out what resources are available through FEMA
Save all receipts for all expenses
Food, lodging, gas, clothing, etc.
You may be entitled to reimbursement through your insurance
Itemize all your belongings
Hard work but critical for your insurance claim
Try to organize everything by room and list everything that was there with a full-price replacement cost
Freeze/cancel services
Electric, gas, TV, land line phone, internet, etc.
Update your mailing address to your P.O. Box for newspapers, magazine subscriptions, etc.
Get supplies for post-fire clean-up
Sturdy boots, N95 masks, gloves, and shovels
Get the proper permits
Check with county and city officials about what permits you’ll need as you begin property clean-up efforts
Let people help you
People will be happy to run simple errands for you
You are not alone. Network with others. Share your knowledge