A lightning strike, careless camper, or arsonist is all it takes to ignite a wildfire. On windy days, wildfires can travel up to 14 miles per hour, mercilessly burning anything in their path. If your beautiful home perched on the edge of the wilderness has been damaged, you may ask yourself—How do I begin recovering from a wildfire? Who can I go to for help?

With DKI, you know you’re not alone. When you call our fire restoration professionals, you can expect an immediate response, even if you call at night, on the weekend, or on a holiday. We’ll be onsite within two hours of your request for help and immediately begin assessing the damage and determining the best course of action.

Here’s what we recommend doing if your home is damaged in a wildfire.

Take the First Steps

  • Let loved ones know you’re safe: In the immediate aftermath of a wildfire, contact your family and friends to tell them you’re okay. Be aware that texts are more likely to go through than calls during emergency situations. You might also post a message on social media to get the word out to all your contacts at once.
  • Listen to public health officials: Wait for permission to return home. When you do, follow the guidelines put forth by public health officials. This may include wearing protective clothing, avoiding downed power lines, and not drinking the tap water until it has been deemed safe.
  • Assess the fire damage: Seeing the destruction for the first time can be overwhelming. Inspect your home and photograph the damage for insurance purposes, but don’t attempt the cleanup yourself. In fact, if your home is severely damaged, you shouldn’t go inside because it might not be structurally sound.

Know Where to Go for Help

  • FEMA: The Federal Emergency Management Agency is an excellent resource for seeking assistance after a wildfire. Download the FEMA app as well to stay up-to-date with real-time notifications in your area.
  • Red Cross: The American Red Cross offers recovery resources, including shelters, meals, health services, emotional support, cleanup assistance, and more.
  • Homeowner’s insurance provider: Your policy should help pay to repair or rebuild your home and replace destroyed belongings after a wildfire. Contact your provider before the cleanup process begins to demonstrate the full extent of the damage and recover the funds you deserve.
  • Volunteer agencies: State and local help should be available to wildfire victims. Listen to government announcements about recovery efforts and the resources you can utilize. Then, contact your local church or other volunteer agencies for further assistance.
  • DKI: Once you’re ready to begin the recovery process, call DKI. Our team has the skills, knowledge, and experience to get you back on your feet as quickly as possible. We provide comprehensive fire damage restoration services, including smoke and soot removal, contents restoration, and building reconstruction.

Contact us today at 844.345.2255 to request smoke and fire damage restoration services near you.