What to Do After a Wildfire
In the aftermath of a wildfire, your family and safety come first. When you are ready, a few steps can protect your recovery. Here is a simple, gentle checklist.
Take care of your family first
Your safety, health, and immediate needs come before anything else. Get medical care for any injuries or smoke effects, and lean on available disaster resources.
Document what you lost
As you are able, photograph the damage and keep a list of what was lost — home, belongings, vehicles, and more. Old photos and receipts, if you have them, help establish the value.
File your insurance claim
Start your own insurance claim, and keep copies of everything — the policy, estimates, and all correspondence. This is often the first source of recovery.
Keep displacement records
Save receipts for temporary housing, meals, and other displacement costs. These are recoverable and add up quickly.
Ask about a claim against the utility
If utility equipment may be linked to the fire, a separate claim against the utility can seek losses beyond your policy. A free, confidential conversation can explain your options.
The deadlines and rules depend on your state
The steps above apply wherever you were hurt. Filing deadlines, fault rules, and limits on damages differ by state — pick yours for what applies to wildfire utility liability.
Not sure where you stand?
A quick, confidential review can tell you — about two minutes, no cost, no obligation.
This is general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different, and the law differs by state.