Wait for safe access
- Do not re-enter until the appropriate authority or qualified professional confirms access is safe.
- Watch for electrical, structural and air-quality hazards.
Fire and smoke guide
First Steps After Fire and Smoke Damage
A guide to safety, access, photos, soot, smoke residue, odour and professional fire-damage assessment.
Avoid spreading soot
- Do not wipe soot with ordinary household products before the surfaces are assessed.
- Limit movement of affected contents into clean areas.
Photograph visible conditions
- Capture rooms, surfaces, contents and access points before unnecessary disturbance.
Separate mitigation from later repairs
- Initial cleaning, odour control and stabilization may be different from reconstruction or decorating.
Important: This guide is general information. It does not replace an on-site assessment, emergency services, qualified trade advice or insurance guidance.