Returning Home

Insurance Coverage

Call your insurance company and follow their instructions and advice. Once the incident is stable, the Fire Department or Emergency Management Team will give control of the property to the insurance company or the home owner. Understand what your policy covers and work with your insurance adjustor to: 

• Go over concerns about security (e.g. unauthorized entry to your property).
• Prevent further damage (damage that happens after the incident may not be covered by your insurance). Additional damage can occur from:
  • Holes in the structure leaving it open to the elements
  • Water remaining inside
  • Freezing water lines
  • Loss of power
• Make a list of the damages to your home and belongings. Document with photos and written notes on what the damage looks like and what you lost. For insurance purposes, the more documentation you have, the better.
• You may need to keep damaged items for insurance purposes.
• Keep records of all clean up and repair costs, including hotels, meals, and travel expenses.

Staying Safe

Inspect your home carefully before entering. If you have doubts about safety, call for assistance. Check with utility suppliers and reconnect your utilities (gas, water, electricity) that may have been turned off for safety reasons.

• Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning by placing generators, pressure washers, charcoal grills, camp stoves or other fuel-burning devices outside and away from open doors, windows, and air vents.
• Ensure water sources such as wells, cisterns, dugouts and livestock water are checked by the health authority for contaminants and clean or treat as needed.
• Be wary of wildlife as you return home after a disaster. Disasters and life-threatening situations will worsen the unpredictable nature of wild animals.
• Wear waterproof boots and gloves to avoid floodwater touching your skin.
• Dispose of any spoiled or contaminated foods, especially after a power outage. If in doubt, throw it out.

Cleaning and Disposal

Think about contacting a professional fire/water damage restoration company for help with anything more than minor smoke or water damage.

• Don’t use electrical appliances if they are wet or damaged.
• Never mix bleach and ammonia, as the fumes are toxic.
• For minor smoke or water damage:
  • Make sure you have the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) to start cleaning (e.g. goggles, gloves, footwear, breathing protection, etc.)
  • Gather the right equipment and supplies to clean the specific items and surfaces—e.g. special chemical cleaners may be needed to get smoke out of clothes or fabrics. You can also take your clothes to a professional dry cleaner.
  • Only restore damaged items in a well-ventilated area
• Make sure you know how to properly dispose of different materials.
• You can rent large dumpster garbage bins that can be taken to the landfill. Contact fire/water damage restoration or dumpster rental companies.
• Dispose of any hazardous materials if they have been exposed to heat, moisture or smoke. Pay attention to warning labels and handle carefully.
• Throw out any food and medicine that has been exposed to heat, moisture, or contamination. Heat, smoke, toxic conditions and flooding make food and medicine dangerous to consume.

When dealing with odours, small dishes of vinegar, vanilla or activated charcoal can help absorb some smells. If the smells are mould or fire-related, the source needs to be removed. You can buy some specialty products in stores or contact a professional cleaning service. 

Repairs and Construction

Contact Building Services at the County with any building code inquiries prior to all renovations, repairs or structural changes to see if permits are needed. Any renovation that will change the structure of your home requires a building permit. You can arrange for the proper permits and inspections through myBuild or by contacting Rocky View County.

Your insurance company may assign your home project to a Customer Service Technician or Client Care Consultant. They will help you with all project concerns, permits and inspections. 

When making your own repairs, put safety first. Think about what you need to know about working at heights, using safety gear, and handling hazardous substances and conditions. Before attempting repairs, ask yourself:

• Do you know the full extent of the repairs?
• Do you have the necessary skills to complete the repairs?
• Do you need licensed trades permits? Plumbing, electrical, gas repairs and other installations typically require licensed trades and contractors by law.
• Will your insurance policy cover the work you'll be doing?
• Do you have the necessary tools and equipment? Costs to buy or rent tools can quickly add up.
• Do you have the time to make the repairs? Are you ready to make the time commitment?

Replenish Supplies

Refill or replace any emergency kits and review your emergency plan with your family. Think about adding items you would have found helpful in this emergency and where to keep your kit so that it’s easily accessible. 

Create a buddy system with your neighbours and plan a support network for family members and pets. Think about any insurance coverage you may want to add.

Consider any steps you can take to be prepared and minimize damage in the event of another emergency, like preventing fires inside or near your home.

Mental Health and Wellness

Even after you move back into your home, past events can impact your emotions or the emotions of your family members. The road to recovery can be long and difficult. 

• Talk to loved ones about how you are feeling.
• Practice healthy habits: get enough rest, eat nutritious food, take time to do the things you enjoy.
• Continue to seek mental health help and/or spiritual support (as needed).
• Talk to your family doctor or call 211.