AFTER THE FIRE . . . WHAT TO DO?

When you have to leave your home . . .

	Your home is in an unliveable condition because of the fire . . . contact the local Police, they will maintain regular patrols of your property in your absence.
	Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. You may be entitled to temporary accommodation as part of a housing clause in your home insurance policy.

Only when it is safe to do so try to collect the following items to take with you.

	All Identification . . . Credit cards, jewellery, money, chequebooks, insurance policies etc. should all be removed from the house as soon as possible.
	Any necessary medicines such as insulin or blood pressure tablets, reading glasses and any personal aids you and your family will need.

Always Take Care . . .

	Household wiring which may have been water damaged should be checked by a licensed electrician before power is turned back on.
	Check for structural damage caused by the fire. Roofs and floors may be weakened. Your local Council's Building Inspector may be able to help.
	All soiled food,drink,medications etc. should be discarded in the appropriate manner.
	Refrigerators and freezers left unopened will bold their temperature for a short time. Never refreeze thawed food.
	The Fire Brigades will notify the gas,fuel and electricity suppliers to disconnect any services before they leave the site.
	When utilities such as gas electricity or water are disconnected it is the responsibility of the home owner to have the services checked and reconnected by a licensed tradesperson.
	Under no circumstances attempt to reconnect the services yourself.
	Collect all receipts for any expenditure you may encure as a result of the fire.These are important,they are your proof to show the Insurance company what money you have spent,helping to verify any losses claimed.

FOR EMERGENCY HELP PHONE 000
For further information on fire prevention and safety please go to:
      http://www.nswfb.nsw.gov.au
"Support Your Local Fire Brigade"