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Guidance and Resources for Recovery
Experiencing a fire can be a traumatic and overwhelming event. The Bluffton Township Fire District is here to help guide you through the recovery process and provide important information to assist you in getting your life back to normal. Please read through the following sections carefully.
Safety First
Your home may not be safe to enter due to structural damage or lingering hazards. Please wait for clearance from fire officials before re-entering your property.
Be Cautious with Contracts
Sadly, disasters often attract individuals looking to take advantage of victims. Never sign a contract or pay anyone who claims they can fast-track your insurance claim or handle restoration without consulting your insurance agent first. Always verify credentials, and if you're approached by anyone offering such services, contact your insurance company before proceeding.
Inspectors and Investigators
Only allow individuals onto your property who can provide official identification. Bluffton Fire investigators will be in uniform, arrive in marked vehicles, or show proper credentials. If someone claims to be an inspector or investigator and seems suspicious, do not hesitate to contact the Bluffton Township Fire District to confirm their identity.
Fire Department Actions
Some property damage may result from our firefighting efforts, such as broken windows or cut openings in roofs and walls. These techniques are essential to ventilate smoke, prevent fire spread, and locate hidden flames. Our team works carefully to minimize damage while ensuring your safety and the complete extinguishment of the fire.
Retrieving Valuables
We understand the importance of personal belongings. When safe, we will assist in locating valuables. However, our crews must quickly return to service after a call. If it is safe, and at our discretion, you may be escorted inside. Please be patient as we assess safety before allowing entry.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are critical to saving lives. If they alerted you to the fire, great job! If not, we want to investigate why. Replace damaged units and test all alarms regularly. These affordable devices are your first line of defense and play a vital role in home safety.
Fire Reports and Insurance
Determining the fire’s cause can take time. Fire investigation reports are typically ready within 10 business days. Insurance providers often require these reports. To request a copy, contact the Bluffton Township Fire District Fire Marshal’s Office. We appreciate your patience while we complete a thorough investigation.
Assistance from the Red Cross
The American Red Cross provides vital emergency assistance after disasters. Their team offers shelter, food, medical support, and mental health services to families in need. If you’ve been affected by a fire, they are ready to help meet immediate needs and provide relief when it’s needed most.
Additional Resources
Things You Should Do
- Discard all food, beverages, and medications exposed to heat, smoke, or water.
- Empty refrigerators/freezers if power was lost.
- Have wiring, plumbing, and gas lines inspected by licensed professionals before restoring utilities.
- Have your HVAC system inspected and change filters regularly.
- Drain pipes and use RV antifreeze in drains if freezing weather is expected.
- Wash both sides of leaves on houseplants.
- Wipe and protect chrome or metal trim with light oil or petroleum jelly.
- Have pets examined by a veterinarian if exposed to fire, heat, or smoke.
- Notify schools, employers, friends, utility companies, your insurance provider, mortgage company, and the post office if you must relocate.
- Stay alert for signs of heat or smoke; fires can reignite.
- Inspect for structural damage and avoid using damaged areas.
- Hang furs and leather items separately at room temperature to dry.
- Notify police and ask neighbors to keep an eye on your property.
Things You Should NOT Do
- Do not enter areas with sagging floors or ceilings.
- Do not discard damaged items without documenting them.
- Do not operate electrical devices until they’ve been cleaned and inspected—especially if fire extinguishers were used nearby.
- Do not open safes or lockboxes immediately—they may ignite upon exposure to fresh air.
- Do not use household vacuums to pick up water; use only wet/dry vacs.
- Do not leave wet books, magazines, or printed items on floors or carpets—they may cause staining.
We're Here to Help
We’re truly sorry for your loss. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance during this difficult time.