FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The following provides information to the most commonly asked questions people have following a fire.

Emotional Support
After the fire you or a family member may experience an emotional reaction to the event. If these emotions become troublesome consider professional assistance. Your employer and/or health insurance carrier may provide coverage for counseling services. Another option is the Trauma Intervention Program (T.I.P.) available to North County residents. To request a T.I.P. counselor call (760) 931-2104.

Staying elsewhere
If your property is not suitable to live in, and you must stay somewhere else, check your insurance policy or ask your agent about living expenses coverage. If you are covered, find a suitable place to stay while your property is being restored. If you are not insured, contact the American Red Cross (760)757-5403 or the Salvation Army (619)231-6000 for shelter assistance.

Vehicles
If your vehicle is damaged in a structure fire, contact your homeowner's insurance agent and your vehicle insurance agent. Your automobile insurance company will be responsible for damage to your vehicle.

If your vehicle is insured, check your policy or ask your agent about auto rental coverage. Refer to the yellow pages under "automobile renting & leasing." There are several agencies in and around Carlsbad to serve you. Some agencies will deliver the automobile to you. If your automobile is not insured you may want to contact the North County Transit District (760)722-6283 for a bus schedule.

Valuables
If cash or documents are burnt, handle with extreme care and as little as possible. Attempt to salvage as much as you can. Encase each sheet of currency in a plastic bag and take it to your bank for directions regarding replacement. If you must leave your home unsecured, consider taking your valuables, identification, medications, and legal documents, with you.

Perishables
Any medications, food, and/or beverages exposed to smoke or heat should not be consumed. Heat can alter a medication's strength. Check with your doctor prior to taking them. Food inside a refrigerator or freezer may be salvageable. A good rule to go by is "IF IN DOUBT, THROW IT OUT." If you are insured, add damaged food to your damaged inventory form. Discarded food should be covered in your policy.

Pets
Inhaled smoke can be very damaging to your pet's health. If your pet has been exposed to smoke or has any physical injuries, consult a veterinarian or the North County Humane Society for guidance. Carlsbad has several veterinarians, some are available 24 hours a day for emergency. If your pet is lost during the incident, contact the North County Animal Control (760)438-2312 for assistance. Following a fire you may need to temporarily place your pet in a board and care facility. There are several facilities in and around Carlsbad, refer to the yellow pages under "Animal Kennels" for a listing. The North County Humane Society (760)757-4357 will also house your pet for a very limited time.