The short answer
Get Out and Stay Out
Your safety comes before anything else. If you see flames or heavy smoke, leave the house right away and take your family and pets with you. Do not stop to grab belongings. Call 911 from a safe spot outside, such as a neighbor's yard.
Once you are out, do not go back in for any reason. Firefighters need to check that the structure is stable and that hot spots are under control. Re-entering too soon can put you at risk from smoke, falling debris, or hidden flames. Wait for the fire department to say it is clear.
Call Your Insurance Company
After the fire department gives the all-clear, contact your insurance company to report the fire. They will guide you on what to document and what steps to take next. Take photos of the damage, including soot, burns, and any water from firefighting. Keep a list of damaged items if you can do so safely.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Ask your insurance company about temporary housing if your home is unlivable. They may also tell you what to keep for receipts if you buy essentials. Do not throw away damaged items until you have documented them.
Take photos of every room, including ceilings and walls.
List damaged belongings and their approximate value.
Save receipts for any emergency purchases.
Ask about temporary housing coverage.
Keep a log of all calls and emails with your insurance company.
Prevent Further Damage
Firefighting leaves behind moisture that can warp wood, stain walls, and encourage mold. If the house is safe to enter, you can help reduce this by opening windows and doors to let air circulate. Use fans if you have power, but avoid spreading soot around. Do not touch walls or ceilings that may be unstable.
Cover broken windows or holes in the roof with plastic sheeting or plywood to keep out rain and animals. This is a temporary measure until a professional can assess the structure. If you live in Bonita Springs, keep a list of emergency supplies handy, like tarps and a generator, for after any fire.
Open windows to ventilate, if safe.
Cover roof holes and broken windows with plastic or plywood.
Turn off electricity at the main breaker if it is safe to do so.
Do not use water to clean soot; it can smear.
Set up fans to dry wet areas, but avoid blowing soot into vents.
Seek Medical Care If Needed
Smoke inhalation can cause coughing, shortness of breath, or chest pain. If you or anyone in your home feels unwell after a fire, see a doctor right away. Even if symptoms seem mild, it is better to be checked. Firefighters and first responders can also advise on local clinics if you need help.
Begin Cleanup with Care
Once the fire department and your insurance company have given the go-ahead, you can start cleaning. Wear gloves, a mask, and long sleeves to protect yourself from soot and debris. Wet materials like drywall, insulation, and carpet may need to be removed to prevent mold. Do not attempt to clean large areas alone.
Water damage from firefighting can be as serious as the fire itself. Local water damage pros can help with structural drying, dehumidification, and removing damaged materials. They can also inspect for hidden moisture in walls and subflooring. In Bonita Springs, the humid subtropical climate with hot rainy summers and an Atlantic hurricane season means mold can grow quickly, so acting fast matters.
Wear gloves, a mask, and long sleeves during cleanup.
Remove soaked carpets, padding, and drywall if safe.
Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels.
Do not use electrical appliances near standing water.
Contact water damage pros for a thorough inspection.
Talk to someone now
Phones are answered 24/7 for Bonita Springs and nearby communities.
Call Now (239) 441-2877Frequently asked questions
How long after a fire can I go back inside?
Only re-enter when firefighters say it is safe. That could be a few hours or several days, depending on the fire's size and structural damage. Do not rush. Listen to officials and wait for the all-clear.
Can I clean soot myself?
Light soot on hard surfaces can be wiped with a dry sponge, but avoid water. For walls, ceilings, or large areas, hire a professional. Soot can be toxic, and improper cleaning can spread it further.
What should I do about water damage from firefighting?
Start drying the area as soon as it is safe. Remove standing water and use fans or dehumidifiers. For soaked drywall or flooring, you may need to remove it. A water damage pro can help dry structures and prevent mold.
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