Widener Agency · Oregon family resource
Returning Home After Wildfire Checklist
A cautious return-and-document checklist based on Oregon environmental and insurance guidance.Before entering
- Wait until public officials say the area is safe to enter.
- Watch for structural damage, hot spots, damaged trees, sharp debris, downed lines, and utility hazards.
- Follow utility, drinking-water, septic, and local public-health instructions.
- Keep children and animals away from ash and debris.
Document and ask first
- Photograph or video damage from a safe location before moving or cleaning items.
- Contact the insurer promptly and ask what it needs to inspect before cleanup or repairs.
- Save receipts and track lodging, food, pet boarding, and other additional living expenses.
- Keep a written log of claim conversations, names, dates, and next steps.
Ash, smoke, and cleanup
- Treat structural ash as potentially hazardous and follow DEQ and local cleanup requirements.
- Do not use a leaf blower, dry sweep ash, or use a vacuum without a HEPA filter.
- Use a damp cloth on hard surfaces and a wet mop on floors when official guidance says cleanup is appropriate.
- Check HVAC filters and filtration equipment; use qualified remediation help when contamination is extensive.
- Discard food affected by heat, ash, smoke, chemicals, spoilage, or unsafe refrigeration according to public-health guidance.