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THINGS YOU SHOULD DO NOW:
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If you are not the building owner, notify
the owner or agent.
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Notify your insurance company or agent if
you have coverage on furniture, possessions, merchandise or
other contents.
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Make sure the building or area is secure
from looting, vandalism or the elements after the Fire
Department leaves.
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Remove valuables from the building if
there is doubt that it is secure. Notify the officer in charge
of the fire if there are valuables in an unsafe or burned out
area of the building and ask assistance in retrieving them.
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Notify the proper utility company if
utilities have been disrupted or turned off. They will turn on
gas and re-ignite pilot lights for gas furnaces, water heaters
and stoves, if that service is in order. They will restore
electrical service to the electric meter, if it is possible.
You must engage your own electrician for the extension of
electrical services within the building or for temporary
wiring. Water is often turned off because of damaged soldered
joints caused by heat of the fire. A plumber may have to be
called to make repairs before water service can be restored.
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Get a furnace serviceperson to restore
heat if this is necessary or possible.
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If freezing weather is imminent, drain
the water system, including toilets and sink traps, or
safeguard them from freezing with salt or antifreeze if heat
cannot be restored.
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If the building is going to be occupied,
be sure the fire alarm systems and fire protection systems are
fully restored and the fire extinguishers are recharged.
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Call the American Red Cross for
assistance should temporary housing or clothing be required.
233-9300
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If the fire has caused more than
furnishing or smoke damage, please call the Building
Inspection Department (266-4551) for information. An inspector
will provide information on how to proceed.
A fire investigator from the Fire Department
or Police Department may make a further investigation into the
cause of the fire; please cooperate and answer all questions.
The officer's job is to determine the cause of the fire so
measures can be taken to prevent a recurrence to you or
someone else.
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