Wildfire Recovery
Wildfire Recovery
Recovering from a wildfire can be financially and emotionally complex, particularly if the wildfire was catastrophic and caused significant damage. Research has also shown that already vulnerable groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities, are significantly more vulnerable to the effects of natural disasters, including wildfire, leaving them more in need of assistance.
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The Centers for Disease Control provides resources that cover how to stay physically safe after a wildfire.
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The American Psychological Association Recovering from Wildfires page addresses the psychological impacts of experiencing a wildfire.
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The USDA Forest Service Burned Area Response Team can help address emergency land management situations on federal lands to minimize threats to life or property resulting from the effects of a fire or to stabilize and prevent unacceptable degradation to natural and cultural resources. If a fire does not take place on federal lands, other agencies and organizations may have resources available to prevent further damage to ecosystems and cultural resources.
Financial recovery after loss due to wildfire can be confusing and time consuming. The specific type financial need will vary greatly depending on individual circumstances. Many people will need to communicate directly with their insurance company or bank to recoup losses.
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USA.gov’s Disaster Financial Assistance page covers how to get emergency financial help from the federal government for those impacted by a natural disaster.
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Non-profit organizations such as the Red Cross may provide assistance.
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Those who lost homes and had insurance can review resources such as After the Fire or Disaster: Dealing with Your Insurance Company for tips from a lawyer for effectively filing an insurance claim.
