First Hour Checklist

1. If water is near outlets, cords or the panel, stay out of it and call the utility or an electrician
2. Shut off the water at the fixture or the main shutoff
3. Turn off power to the wet area at the breaker panel, only if you are standing somewhere dry
4. Take wide photos and videos of every wet room before you move anything
5. Move electronics, rugs, papers and furniture out of the water, and put foil under furniture legs you cannot move
6. Mop or wet vacuum standing clean water (never sewage)
7. Open windows if the air outside is drier, and start fans
8. Call your insurance company and write down the claim number
9. Call a plumber for the source and a restoration company if water soaked carpet, walls or a ceiling
10. Keep receipts for everything you buy

1. Do not go back in until the fire department says the building is safe
2. Call your insurance company and ask about temporary housing
3. Ask the fire department for the incident report number
4. Photograph and video every room from the doorway before anything is moved
5. Have the utilities checked before gas or power is turned back on
6. Secure the home with board up and a roof tarp
7. Do not wipe soot with water or turn on the HVAC
8. Throw out food, medicine and cosmetics that were exposed to heat or smoke
9. Start a list of damaged belongings with rough age and price
10. Keep every receipt for hotels, meals and supplies

Clear checklist