Facts to Know After a Business Fire

12/28/2019 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot damage in West Miami, FL

Most business owners don’t want to think about the extreme damage that could occur after a fire in their business. The losses are often catastrophic and starting over again simply seems impossible. It’s helpful to be educated about what should be done after a fire. Fire damage can be minimized if proper steps are taken by business owners.

Contact Your Insurance

After a fire at your West Miami, FL, business, it’s hard to know where to begin. The U.S. Fire Administration suggests contacting your insurance agent first. This is because they can help with the following items:

• Contacting a fire restoration company – fire specialists are available to help mitigate the damage caused by fire, smoke and water.
  
• Understanding financial coverage – your insurance company can help you understand your financial responsibilities.
  
• Provide an advance – you’ll likely need money to safely board up your business and relocate to a temporary or replacement location.
  
  
  

Take Care of Your Employees

The safety of your employees should be your number one concern. Make sure all employees understand that it’s not okay to re-enter the building until the fire department says it’s safe. Even if the fire is extinguished, soot, smoke, and dirty water can be harmful to their health. Fire damage can be extensive and walls, roofs and other structures may not be secure. Before employees leave, make sure they have a safe place to go and that someone is available to care for them if needed.

Work With a Fire Restoration Company

There are many benefits to working with a fire restoration company. Fire specialists will conduct an assessment of your building and board up your building if needed. If water damage is present due to the fire hose used by firefighters, specialists can provide water removal and drying. Once the water has been removed, steps can be taken to remove smoke and soot.
Understanding what needs to be done after a fire can alleviate some stress as a business owner. Fire damage can also be minimized by working with a professional.