RECOVERING FROM A FIRE IN THE HOME

Find out about how to safely access and clean up your home.

Entering your home after a fire

Homes may be unsafe to enter after a fire. Find out about how to safely access and clean up your home, and what to wear when you enter your home.

Is it safe to enter?
Access to clean up your home
Dangerous and hazardous materials
What to wear when you enter your home

If your home is badly damaged or non-liveable

Fire can destroy homes in a matter of minutes. Find out what you can do if your home is badly damaged, made non-liveable, or destroyed by fire.

Emergency accommodation and assistance
Personal items to collect from your home

Fire investigation and insurance evaluation

After a house fire, official investigations and insurance assessments help determine the cause and support your recovery. These steps ensure safety, confirm what happened and guide repairs or claims. The services below explain what to expect and who to contact.

Fire investigation
Insurance evaluation

Home security, electricity, gas and power

Securing your property and restoring essential services is a priority after a fire. These actions prevent further damage and help you return home safely. The options below outline how to protect your home and reconnect utilities.

Home security
Electricity, gas and water

Your wellbeing

Experiencing a house fire can be deeply distressing and disruptive. You may notice a range of feelings—such as shock, sadness, anger, anxiety, or confusion in the days and weeks that follow.

  • Everyone responds to crisis and loss in their own way.
  • Healing takes time, and support from family, friends, and community can make a difference.
  • Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. If difficult feelings or strong reactions continue for more than two weeks, or begin to affect your daily life, consider seeking professional support.
  • You don’t have to face this alone. Sometimes it helps to talk to someone outside your immediate circle - someone who is trained to listen and support you.

If you’re unsure where to start, there are people and services ready to help you whenever you need it.

Support services (available 24/7)

More Information

Fire in the home overview

Find out how to prevent fires at home and what help is available if it happens.

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Preventing a fire in the home

Reduce your risk and improve your safety by following the safety tips provided on this page.

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Types of smoke alarms

Find out about the types of smoke alarms you should consider for your property.

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During a fire in the home

Only use a fire blanket or fire extinguisher in the first few seconds of ignition.

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