Steps to Take After the Eaton Canyon Fire: Resources for Homeowners, Renters, and Small Businesses

Recovering from the Eaton Canyon Fire requires immediate action, careful planning, and access to the right resources. Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or small business owner, this guide outlines essential steps to help you navigate the recovery process and rebuild your life and our community. Remember: you are not alone. Help is available.

Immediate Actions (First 72 Hours)

Recovering Essential Documents

• ID and Driver’s License: Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

• Social Security Card: Visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) website or local office.

• Passport: File Form DS-64 and apply for a replacement through the U.S. State Department.

• Birth Certificate: Contact the vital records office in the state where you were born.

• Insurance Policies: Reach out to your insurance provider for digital copies or replacements.

Tip: Store all replacement documents securely in a waterproof, fireproof safe or digital cloud storage.

Registering for FEMA Assistance

• What to Do: Apply for help from FEMA at DisasterAssistance.gov.

• Why It Matters: FEMA may cover costs not included in your insurance, such as temporary housing, medical expenses, and essential repairs.

Protecting Health and Safety

• Wear Protective Gear: Use N95 masks, gloves, and boots to avoid exposure to ash, soot, and contaminated water.

• Avoid Hazardous Debris: Do not enter fire-damaged areas until cleared by officials.

• Request Environmental Testing: Contact county officials for soil, water, and air quality tests.

Short-Term Recovery (Days 4–14)

For Homeowners

Assessing Damage

• Document Everything: Take photos and videos of damaged property.

• Contact Insurance: Notify your insurance provider and submit claims with supporting evidence.

Securing Your Home

• Temporary Repairs: Board up windows, secure doors, and cover damaged areas to prevent further loss (retain receipts for reimbursement).

• Utilities: Contact service providers to check restoration timelines and report damages.

Exploring Housing Options

• If Displaced: Use FEMA housing assistance or your insurance’s Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage.

• Rental Search: Look for temporary accommodations suitable for your needs.

For Renters

Understanding Lease Agreements

• Review Your Lease: Check clauses for rent abatement or termination in case of uninhabitable conditions.

• Contact Landlord: Notify them of damages and ask about repair timelines and temporary housing.

Temporary Housing

• FEMA Assistance: Apply for aid if your renters insurance doesn’t cover displacement costs.

• Community Resources: Utilize shelters or short-term rentals if needed.

For Small Business Owners

Damage Assessment

• Inspect Property: Document damages thoroughly with photos and detailed notes.

• File Insurance Claims: Contact your provider with evidence of loss, including inventory records.

Employee Communication

• Payroll Continuity: Use disaster loans or grants to continue paying employees.

• Support for Workers: Inform employees about unemployment benefits or disaster assistance.

Medium-Term Recovery (Weeks 2–8)

For Homeowners

• Hire Licensed Contractors: Avoid scams by verifying credentials. Retain all receipts for insurance reimbursement.

• Start Repairs: Begin remediation and reconstruction once approved by county officials.

For Renters

• Stay Updated: Maintain communication with your landlord about repair progress.

• Track Expenses: Keep receipts for temporary housing and other disaster-related costs.

For Small Business Owners

• Repair and Reopen: Coordinate with contractors and ensure compliance with local inspection and permitting processes.

• Restock Inventory: Work with vendors to replenish supplies and materials.

Financial Management

• For All Groups:

  • Contact creditors to negotiate payment deferrals.

  • Research local, state, and federal grant programs for disaster recovery.

  • Explore Small Business Administration (SBA) loans if applicable.

Long-Term Recovery (Months 2–12)

Planning for Resilience

• For Homeowners:

  • Evaluate insurance coverage for future disasters.

  • Strengthen your property against wildfires (e.g., fire-resistant & defensible space landscaping).

• For Renters:

  • Consider renters insurance if not already covered.

  • Maintain updated emergency plans for your household.

• For Small Business Owners:

  • Develop a disaster recovery and continuity plan.

  • Review insurance policies and add coverage for business interruptions if needed.

Mental Health Support

• For All Groups:

  • Seek counseling through FEMA, Red Cross, or local organizations.

  • Join community recovery groups to connect with others and share experiences