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What to Do in the First 24 Hours After Fire Damage: A Colorado Springs Homeowner's Emergency Guide


Published December 24, 2024 | Fire Damage Recovery | 8 min read


The first 24 hours after a fire are critical. Whether you have experienced a kitchen fire, electrical fire, or major house fire in Colorado Springs, Monument, Black Forest, or Falcon, the actions you take immediately can significantly impact your recovery, insurance claim, and the final cost of restoration.

Home with fire damage to the roof

As a veteran-owned fire damage restoration company serving Colorado Springs since 2020, we have helped hundreds of families navigate this overwhelming situation. Our team responds 24/7 with an average 90-minute response time to help you protect your home and begin the path to recovery.

This guide covers the essential steps to take in those crucial first 24 hours.


NEED IMMEDIATE FIRE DAMAGE HELP?

Comfort Restorations provides 24/7 emergency fire damage restoration throughout Colorado Springs, Monument, Black Forest, and Falcon.

Call Now: 719-439-0611 | Average 90-minute response time


Contents

1. First 30 Minutes: Life Safety First

2. Hours 1-3: Secure the Property

3. Hours 3-6: Document Everything

4. Hours 6-12: Contact Your Insurance

5. Hours 12-24: Begin Professional Mitigation

6. What NOT to Do After Fire Damage

7. Why 24 Hours Matters

8. What Happens After 24 Hours


First 30 Minutes: Life Safety First

1. Ensure Everyone Is Safe

Do NOT re-enter the property until fire officials declare it safe. Even after flames are extinguished:

  • Structure may be unstable

  • Toxic smoke and fumes can linger

  • Hot spots can reignite

  • Electrical hazards may exist

Wait for official clearance from the Colorado Springs Fire Department before entering.


2. Get Medical Attention If Needed

Smoke inhalation can cause delayed symptoms. Seek medical attention if anyone experiences:

  • Difficulty breathing or chest pain

  • Persistent coughing

  • Headaches or dizziness

  • Nausea or confusion


3. Find Safe Temporary Housing

Options in Colorado Springs area:

  • Stay with family or friends in Monument, Black Forest, or nearby areas

  • Contact your insurance company about hotel coverage

  • Local Red Cross may provide emergency assistance: 719-633-3563

Your insurance policy typically covers loss of use or additional living expenses (ALE) while your home is uninhabitable.


Hours 1-3: Secure the Property

4. Contact a 24/7 Fire Damage Restoration Company

This is your most important call. Professional fire damage mitigation needs to begin within hours to prevent:

  • Smoke and soot damage spreading - Acidic soot continues damaging surfaces

  • Water damage from firefighting efforts - Standing water causes mold within 24-48 hours

  • Odor penetration - Smoke odor becomes permanent if not treated quickly

  • Secondary damage - Exposure to elements worsens damage


Why Choose Comfort Restorations for Fire Damage in Colorado Springs?

  • 24/7 emergency response with 90-minute average arrival time

  • Veteran-owned with military-grade commitment to service

  • IICRC Certified fire damage restoration specialists

  • Full-service approach - vast majority of emergency clients choose us for complete reconstruction

  • Direct insurance billing - We work directly with all major insurers including USAA


5. Board Up and Secure Entry Points

Professional restoration companies like Comfort Restorations provide emergency board-up services to:

  • Prevent theft and vandalism

  • Keep out weather and animals

  • Reduce liability exposure

  • Show insurance company you are mitigating damage

Important: Get permission from fire officials before boarding up. Document all damage before covering it.


6. Notify Your Mortgage Company

If you have a mortgage, notify your lender within 24 hours. They need to know about:

  • Extent of fire damage

  • Your insurance claim status

  • Temporary housing arrangements


Do Not Wait - Get Professional Fire Damage Help Now

The first 24 hours after fire damage determine whether your property can be fully restored or suffers permanent damage. Every hour counts.


Comfort Restorations has been serving Colorado Springs families since 2020 with the commitment to service you would expect from a veteran-owned company. We are:

  • Available 24/7/365 for emergency fire damage

  • Averaging 90-minute response times

  • IICRC Certified in fire and smoke restoration

  • BBB A+ Accredited

  • USAA Preferred Contractor

  • Providing full-service mitigation to reconstruction


We serve Colorado Springs, Monument, Black Forest, Falcon, and surrounding El Paso County communities.


Emergency Fire Damage? We Are Ready Now

24/7 Emergency Response | 90-Minute Average Arrival Time

719-439-0611



 
 
 

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