The First 24 Hours After a House Fire: Steps Every Homeowner Should Take

House fires are devastating, but what you do in the first 24 hours can make all the difference in recovery.

1. Ensure Safety First

Wait for the fire department’s clearance before re-entering your home. Fires can weaken structures, leaving hidden dangers.

2. Call Your Insurance Company

The sooner you report the incident, the quicker your claims process can begin.

3. Protect Your Property

Boarding up windows and tarping roofs prevent weather or theft from causing further damage.

4. Avoid DIY Cleanup

Smoke and soot contain hazardous particles that can embed deeper into surfaces if not handled correctly.

5. Contact a Restoration Specialist

Professional restoration companies like Coventry Services LLC provide emergency fire cleanup, water removal, and content protection. Their team is available 24/7 in Northern Virginia and Maryland to stabilize your property and start recovery.

👉 If you’ve recently experienced fire damage, acting quickly is the best way to reduce long-term costs and stress.