The Los Angeles wildfires forced over 200,000 people to evacuate and destroyed more than 16,000 homes, offices, and shops. The financial losses are estimated at $275 billion, but for survivors, the damage isn’t just about money. It’s about losing everything familiar and having to start over.
After a disaster this big, many people experience post-tragedy paralysis. The urgency of survival is gone, and what’s left is exhaustion, shock, and the overwhelming question of what to do next. This can make it hard to take action, but the first steps are crucial: finding shelter, securing necessities, and making sure your loved ones are safe.
One of the biggest hurdles is dealing with insurance needs and financial recovery. It’s not always as simple as filing a claim and getting a check. Some people struggle with denied claims or settlements that don’t cover their losses. That’s why many turn to Los Angeles wildfire lawyers to help them fight for what they’re owed.
Even with a lawyer’s help, you still have to make individual effort to rebuild your own life and move forward, whether in or out of the city. Here’s what you can do:
Attend to immediate needs
The first step after surviving a wildfire is handling your immediate needs, which could either be shelter, food, water, or medical care. If your home is unsafe, find temporary housing through family, friends, or relief organizations. Make sure you have enough food and clean water since stores may be closed, and supplies could be limited.
Medical care is also important, even if you don’t feel hurt. Smoke inhalation and stress can have lasting effects, so get checked out if needed. If you lost important documents like your ID or insurance papers, start replacing them as soon as possible to access aid and financial help.
Handling these basic needs first gives you the stability to focus on the next steps, like rebuilding and long-term recovery.
File for additional assistance
After a wildfire, rebuilding can feel impossible, especially when insurance doesn’t cover everything. At this point, you can’t afford to not file for additional assistance. Programs like FEMA and state disaster relief can help with temporary housing, repairs, and emergency expenses.
Many people don’t apply because they think they won’t qualify or the process seems too complicated. But skipping it can leave you struggling to cover basic needs. Even if you don’t need help right now, having extra support can make a huge difference as you rebuild your life.
Document your claims
If you’re filing an insurance claim or applying for aid after a wildfire, proper documentation is key. Take clear photos and videos of all damage, such as your home, belongings, and anything else affected. If you have old photos from before the fire, they can help show what was lost. Keep receipts for expenses like temporary housing or repairs.
Insurance companies and aid programs won’t just take your word for it; they need proof. If you’re working with wildfire lawyers, detailed documentation will strengthen your case. The more evidence you have, the better your chances of getting the help you need to rebuild.
Rebuild and rebuild safely
Rebuilding after a wildfire has to be done safely. Burned land can be unstable, increasing the risk of landslides and flooding. Before rebuilding, experts need to assess the area to ensure it’s safe.
With wildfires becoming more frequent, rebuilding must be smarter. This means using fire-resistant materials, creating defensible spaces, and following updated safety codes to reduce future risks. Many survivors also struggle with insurance claims and financial setbacks, making it important to seek help when needed.
Rebuilding takes time, but doing it right ensures a safer, more resilient home.
