Hand-off from the fire department

  1. Find out who is in charge of the scene

    Ask the officer whether the scene has been released, whether a fire investigator will return, and whether any areas must stay undisturbed.

  2. Ask about hazards they found

    Note any warnings about structure, utilities, stored materials or areas the department considers unsafe to enter.

  3. Confirm utility status

    Learn which utilities were shut off and by whom. Gas and electric service are restored by the utility or a licensed contractor, not facility staff, once it is safe.

  4. Get the incident information

    Write down the incident or report number the department provides, which your insurer will ask for.

  5. Secure the building

    Arrange board-up of broken doors and windows, temporary fencing if needed, and security for open areas. Unsecured buildings attract theft and further damage.

Firefighting water is often the bigger cleanup

In industrial fires the volume of water used by hose lines and sprinklers can affect far more of the building than the flames did. That water carries ash and soot across the floor, soaks offices and stock, and can sit in pits and low areas. Treat it as dirty water when deciding what to keep. If chemicals, oils or other stored materials were in the fire area, the water may carry them too, which makes it a matter for environmental professionals and possibly regulators before property cleanup proceeds.

Smoke damage in a large open building often extends well beyond the visible fire area. The sooner residue is assessed and cleaning begins, the less chance it has to bond to surfaces or start corroding metal and electronics. At the same time, avoid disturbing the area of origin until any investigation is complete and the insurer has had a chance to see it.

Temporary measures, such as covering roof openings, pumping out water and setting up dehumidification in unaffected areas, are generally expected under commercial policies to limit further damage. Keep records of what was done and why.

Before the end of the first day

  • Insurer and agent notified, with the incident number.
  • Building secured: board-up, fencing, locks, and security if needed.
  • Fire protection status known; fire watch arranged if sprinklers or alarms are impaired.
  • Photos and video taken of every affected area, including outside.
  • Area of origin left undisturbed until released by investigators.
  • Staff told where to report and which areas are off-limits.
  • Customers and suppliers with goods in the building notified.
  • Restoration provider contacted for an assessment of water, smoke and debris.

General information for Commerce City, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.