After a natural disaster, knowing what to do first can make the difference between a quick recovery and months of confusion. This checklist covers the essential steps — from ensuring safety to accessing federal aid.
Immediate Safety Priorities
Before anything else, make sure you and your family are safe. Do not return to a damaged home until local authorities say it is safe. Watch for hazards like downed power lines, gas leaks, contaminated water, and structural damage. If you smell gas, leave immediately and call 911.
Document Everything Before Cleaning Up
Take photos and video of all damage — inside and out — before you move or discard anything. This documentation is essential for insurance claims and FEMA applications. Walk through every room, photograph damaged belongings, and save receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary housing.
Do not throw away damaged items before documenting them. Insurance adjusters and FEMA inspectors need to see the damage. Keep damaged items in a pile outside your home if necessary, but photograph everything first.
Contact Your Insurance Company
File a claim with your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance as soon as possible. Most policies require prompt reporting. Ask about additional living expenses (ALE) coverage, which may pay for temporary housing while your home is being repaired.
Register With FEMA
Even if you have insurance, register with FEMA for Individual Assistance. You can apply online at disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 (TTY: 1-800-462-7585). FEMA can help with temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses that insurance does not cover.
Call 211 for Local Help
Dial 2-1-1 to connect with local organizations providing food, shelter, clothing, and other immediate assistance. 211 operators can also help you find mental health support, legal aid, and long-term recovery resources in your area.
Apply for SBA Disaster Loans
The Small Business Administration offers low-interest disaster loans to homeowners and renters — not just businesses. These loans can cover repairs and replacement of damaged property when insurance and grants are not enough.
Documents to Save and Protect
- Photo identification for all household members
- Insurance policies and claim numbers
- FEMA registration number and correspondence
- Mortgage and lease documents
- Bank account and financial records
- Medical records and prescription information
- Social Security cards and birth certificates
- All receipts for emergency repairs and expenses
Getting Temporary Housing
If you cannot stay in your home, several options are available. Emergency shelters operated by the Red Cross provide immediate refuge. FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program can provide hotel vouchers. For longer-term needs, FEMA may provide rental assistance or temporary housing units.
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