Some Important Thoughts Regarding The Fire

Important Steps for Your Safe and Speedy Recovery

Please visit the following link to The American Red Cross for detailed information regarding the fire.  They have prepared encouraging articles regarding not only your safety, but your recovery after the fire.
 
http://www.redcross.org/services/disaster/0,1082,0_569_,00.html

Following are a few highlights from their web site.

Emotional Recovery 
Your own and your family's emotional care and recovery are just as important as rebuilding a home and healing physical injuries.

As outlined from the American Red Cross, the following ideas will help you through this time of disaster and healing.

• If possible, return to your normal, everday routines.
• Make sure you drink plenty of water.
• Allow yourself ample time for rest and sleep. 
• Try not to "hide" your feelings about the fire - if you have an opinion, share it. 
• Reach out, and accept help from others.
• When it's possible, try to do something you enjoy with your family, or at least something that is familiar.
• Make sure you stay close to your family and friends.

Helping Pets
If you own pets, please be sure to comfort them as both of you recover after this or any other disaster. Also, during this time, your pet may respond to situations differently than before - please handle them carefully and lovingly.  Here are a few more tips gleaned from the American Red Cross web site.

• If you are unable to be with your pets for extended periods of time, make sure you leave them with their favorite toys, or other family and friends when available.
• Don't change their diet, and also, make sure they have enough water.
• If possible, make more time to be with your pets. Playing with them a bit more will not only be therapeutic for them, but you, as well.

Please visit the American Red Cross web site for further details regarding the following discussions.

~ Checking Your Home
~ Checking for Structural Damage
~ Checking Utilities and Major Systems
~ Checking Telephone, Electrical Systems, Plumbing, Household Items
~ Cleaning up smoke odor
~ Insurance Tips