Wildfire help and disaster assistance

Before, during and after a wildfire there is a lot to track: safety, power shutoffs, evacuation, housing, insurance, assistance applications and utility service. Taking things one step at a time and keeping good records can make the process more manageable.

Wildfire preparedness

Sign up for local emergency alerts and your utility's notifications.
Know your evacuation routes and have a go-bag ready.
Plan for Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), which some utilities use during dangerous fire weather.
If anyone relies on powered medical equipment, plan for backup power or a place to go.

During a wildfire

Follow evacuation orders and official emergency alerts from local authorities.
Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.
If told to by officials or your utility, and only if it's safe, shut off gas before leaving.
Check your utility's notices for outages and shutoffs.

Utility restoration and home-energy recovery

After a fire, utilities may need to inspect and repair lines before restoring service. Have damaged electrical or gas systems checked by qualified professionals before use. Ask your utility about billing for a damaged or unoccupied home.

Official disaster assistance

FEMA — when a federal disaster is declared, individual assistance may be available; apply through official FEMA channels.
State and local agencies — may run recovery centers and programs.
American Red Cross and local nonprofits — may offer shelter, supplies and recovery support.
Your utility — may offer service restoration information, billing relief or other support after disasters.

Private assistance and insurance

Separate from official disaster assistance, your insurance company handles policy claims under the terms of your coverage, and private professionals or advocates may offer services. For legal questions, consult a qualified professional.

Records worth keeping

Photos and videos of damage, with dates.
Important dates — evacuation, damage discovered, contact with agencies and insurers.
Receipts for expenses such as lodging, food, repairs and replacement items.
Claim numbers, application references and names of people you spoke with.
Copies of policies, IDs, utility bills and property documents.

Important to know

Wattie is not a government agency, insurance company, utility, emergency service or law firm. Wattie does not file FEMA applications or insurance claims for you and cannot guarantee that assistance or a claim will be approved.

How Wattie can help

Wattie helps you identify FEMA, Red Cross, utility, state, local and other resources to verify.
Wattie guides wildfire case intake: organizing damage information, dates, documents, expenses, claim references and next steps.
When the Utility Bill Advocates handoff becomes available, you may choose to request separate human assistance from Utility Bill Advocates.

Wattie provides general information and organization help. Always verify programs, rates and deadlines with official sources.

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